One Night - Forbidden Hearts Series Book 1

42. Bora Bora

"Are you nervous, Princess?"

I continued straightening Jackson's tie and met his gaze. Nervous wasn't really the word. "Why would I be nervous?"

He arched a brow. "Perhaps because you and I are about to walk down the isle together."

I snorted as I smoothed his tie and took a step back. "You're the best man and I'm the maid of honor. To be honest, I'm excited. They need this."

We arrived in Bora Bora last night and got settled into our hotel. Apparently, Ryan was able to set everything up for him and Danielle to get married today on the beach. He even flew in Lanie and Jamie.

Ryan decided to bite the bullet and let both of our parents know that the wedding was off. When he did so, I turned my cell phone off and haven't turned it back on since. I wanted to enjoy this time with everyone, especially Jackson, without the interference of my mother.

I still felt a little guilty over what happened. Ryan and Jackson said that if there was anything they could do to make sure my parents didn't lose their business, they would. Honestly, Ryan and Jackson were the best two men that I knew. But now wasn't the time to worry about that or let the guilt override me. Now was the time to watch two people we both really cared about start the rest of their lives.

I walked over to the mirror to put my earrings on when I saw Jackson come up behind me in the mirror. He was carrying something in his hand and had an pensive look on his face. "Are you okay? Your the one who seems nervous now."

He cleared his throat as he met my gaze in the mirror. "I-- I have something for you."

I turned around with a frown. This behavior wasn't like him. To be honest, I was a little worried. Ever since he told me he loved me and we had the big talk, he's been more affectionate. I definitely wasn't complaining. But right now he looked upset.

He let out a shaky breath before he opened his hand. Inside was an excuisite gold necklace. There was a heart pendant on it with a diamond surounded by emeralds. I had never seen anything like it. "That's beautiful," I breathed, unable to take my eyes off of it.

"It was my mother's."

My eyes shot to his. "Jackson, I can't take that." No way. I know how much he cared about and missed his mother. What if I lost it or broke it while I was wearing it? I would never forgive myself.

He smiled and caressed my cheek. "She really liked you. She would want you to have it. I want you to have it." He ran his hand through his hair before continuing. "Think of it as a promise necklace," he said with a smirk. "It is my solemn vow, Princess, that I will love and cherish you for always. I promise never to stray or betray you."

I knew he wasn't proposing; we both were anti-wedding at the moment. I never felt like the marrying type, especially after the whole arranged marriage thing. Jackson had always been opposed to it. I knew this was still a big deal for him. Here he was, the man who swore never to be in love or in a relationship, promisng me a lifetime of passion, committment, and love. I guess dreams do come true.

"I would love to wear it," I said breathlessly. I was overcome with emotion and was trying not to ruin my makeup.

"Turn around, Princess."

I did as he instructed and he draped it around my neck. After fastening the clasp, his eyes met mine in the mirror. My chest tightened and the love I felt for this man seemed to grow even more, if that were possible. He placed his hands on my shoulders and turned me around. Reaching out, he wiped a tear that slid down my face with his thumb.

"No one deserves your tears, Princess. No one."

I smiled when he said that. He always said that whenever I was upset. He was always so good at making me feel important, worthy, and loved. I placed my hand on his chest and inhaled a shaky breath. "She would be so proud of you."