Chapter 135

Melanie’s POV

Asher and I swanned through the little boutique jewelry shop like we owned the place, me clutching a drowsy Theo in one arm as the poor kid snored through my elbow. My other hand circled the display cases like a shark sizing up its prey. “Don’t let me accidentally pick out a diamond the size of Texas,” I teased, huffing a laugh at Asher’s raised eyebrow. He pretended to scrutinize a ring the size of a donut, then winked at me. I swear, the man could flirt with a brick wall.

The jeweler—a short, cheerful guy with a magnifier permanently taped to his eyebrow—greeted us. He had no idea I was suddenly rolling in cash again, which was secretly delightful. I liked staying under the radar when my pockets were flush. The idea of some balding accountant judging my impulse buys gave me a tiny thrill.

I didn’t want anything ostentatious. Running dance classes in full flashback-worthy sparkle sounded like a recipe for midday disasters. Ring gems needed to