Broken kingdom

Chapter 2 Bianca

“Promise me you’ll never fall in love.”

My mother’s words reverberate throughout my head as I stare down at my engagement ring. 

I haven’t had a memory like that in over eight months. 

It’s strange I would have one on the day I’m supposed to try on wedding gowns for the first time. 

Almost like a bad omen. 

No. 

I halt that thought before it has time to take root and fester. 

I love Stone and he loves me. 

We’re perfect for each other. 

Everyone thinks so…even my brothers. 

Which is saying something because they used to despise him. 

Taking a deep breath, I get off my bed and walk over to the tiny desk in the far corner of the room. 

I lucked out when it came to the dorming situation at Duke’s Heart and managed to snag one of the only single dorm rooms on campus. 

Of course, that will all change next year after I’m married and I move into Stone’s apartment…with his mother. 

I force another breath through my lungs as I grab my knapsack. 

It’s the first day of my second semester of college and I don’t want to be late for class. 

I’m about to walk out the door, but the glint of my engagement ring catches my eye. 

It’s a simple gold band with an equally simple, small diamond. Stone told me we could upgrade to a bigger diamond after he graduates from med school, but I told him not to bother. 

I love my ring. 

I love him even more. 

With shaky fingers, I bring my cell phone to my ear. 

“Luxury Bridal, how can I help you?” the woman answers. 

I clear my throat before speaking. “Hi, my name is Bianca Covington. I have an appointment to try on wedding dresses later today.” 

“Ah, yes. I have you down for five-fifteen.” 

I swallow. “Is there any way I can reschedule? Something’s come up.”

“Sure, sweetie. Do you know when you’d like to come in? I have an opening later this week, and another one next Tues—”

“Do you have anything later than that?” I blurt out before I catch myself. “How about next month?”

“Sure do. We can schedule you for February twenty-fifth. Is five-fifteen still okay?” 

“Yup. Thanks so much,” I rush out before hanging up. 

I love Stone…I really do. 

I just wish I knew why the second he placed a ring on my finger and I said yes…

it felt like a noose was tightening around my neck.