Maria’s eyes flashed dangerously. Nicky had never spoken to her like that before. She thought he loved her. Didn’t the beautiful gold name necklace he’d given her prove that? But then, why is he so upset about Rosie’s custom jewelry? It shouldn’t even matter to him. The name necklace that had always made her feel so warm and secure suddenly felt cold against her skin—like a snake.
“Well, I’ll give you two some privacy. Apparently you have a lot to talk about.” With that, Marie turned and walked away; her fingers subconsciously stroking the personalized jewelry Nicky had given her.
Nicky and Rosie didn’t even notice she’d left, they’re eyes still locked.
“So? Who is this guy, Rosie?”
Rosie was enjoying this scene and the attention it brought, immensely. Clearly this piece of custom jewelry was the best investment she’d ever made.
“Obviously, someone who cares about me very much,” Rosie softly replied; gently touching her new name necklace. “And I care about him, too.”
“Obviously,” Nicky mimicked her tone of voice. “That doesn’t answer my question. I want to know who gave you personalized jewelry with diamonds on it. Must be some rich guy, huh? I want a name!”
“What do you care? You’re with Maria now. What’s it to you who I see or what I do?” Rosie egged him on. She loved a good game.
“Yeah, I’m with Maria and I love her. So, what? That doesn’t mean I can’t care about you, too.”
“So you love two women at the same time? If that’s the case, you should have gotten me a gold name necklace too, or a silver one, or some kind of custom jewelry!”
“No, it’s not like that. I’m in love with Maria,” Nicky explained. “But I care about what happens to you. I don’t want to see you get hurt or end up in trouble.”
Rosie was speechless. Her plan had failed miserably and she felt like a jerk. She wished she’d never tried to trick him with personalized jewelry. Tears welled up in her eyes and her lips quivered.
“Why are you crying? What’s wrong?” Nicky put his arm around her shoulders. “Tell me. I’m your friend. I want to help…
Upon hearing those words, Rosie burst into tears. Mascara mixed with bright blue eye shadow and crimson rouge streamed down her cheeks like a rainbow from Hades.