Brooklyn knew it was ridiculous to get this worked up over a celebrity gossip website. This inferiority complex she had to Cassidy Cline had to stop. It wasn’t healthy, and she didn’t want her incessant doubts to push Dax away. Somehow, she had to come to terms with her fears, realize she was enough. She was glad Dax couldn’t read her thoughts, or he’d know how threatened she felt right now. Maybe with time, things would settle back to normal. And until then, she’d fake being confident. Brooklyn was truly grateful Dax had received his eyesight, and hoped with all her heart the surgery would stick. Watching his eyes focus on her, realizing that he could actually see her, was one of the most memorable moments of her life. She couldn’t wait to get back to Dax to find out how much more he could see.

Rather than rushing to Dax’s house, Brooklyn decided to stop by Sprouts Farmers Market and pick up a few items for lunch, maybe a couple of sushi rolls, fruit, and chips. It was still too early for lunch, but Brooklyn was hungry because she’d rushed out the door this morning without eating.

Thirty minutes later, she pulled in front of Dax’s home. She frowned, not recognizing the car in the driveway. It had Oregon plates. She grabbed the bag of groceries and went inside. As she stepped into the den, she stopped in her tracks. Her eyes rounded in horror as she dropped the groceries, not believing what she was seeing. Dax and Cassidy were on the sofa, kissing. She stood there, frozen. For one terrible moment Dax’s eyes locked with hers, and she saw the guilt radiating from his newly sighted eyes.

Her voice cracked. “How could you?” She turned and ran out the door.

Dax followed after her. “Wait! It’s not what it looked like. Cassidy just stopped by to congratulate me.”

Brooklyn spun around, rage pulsing through her. “She was doing a lot more than congratulating. You were kissing her.” A bitter hurt rankled through her bones.

Dax’s eyes went wide. “No, I wasn’t. She was kissing me.”

A hard laugh escaped her throat. “Right.”

“It’s true. I didn’t know she was coming. We were just sitting on the couch, talking, and then she leaned over and planted a kiss on me when you came in.”

Tears burned her eyes. “I suppose you had nothing to do with the story that leaked.”

“What story?”

“The one about you and Cassidy getting back together.” The words soured her mouth as she spat them out.

Astonishment came into his eyes. “What’re you talking about?”

“It’s all over the Internet.”

He raked his hands through his hair. “I had no idea.”

Brooklyn’s mind whirled as she tried to sift through the wreckage of all that was happening. Her eyes flashed as she got up in Dax’s face. “Do you really expect me to believe you’re an innocent bystander in all of this?”

His face fell. “I am. How could you accuse me of being anything else?”

“Do you really expect me to believe you didn’t know Cassidy was coming? That she just randomly showed up on your doorstep?”

He squared his jaw. “Yes, it’s the truth.”

“Your mother was worried something like this would happen.”

He rocked back. “What?”

“She warned me that Cassidy would try and worm her way back into your life, and she was afraid you wouldn’t be strong enough to resist her.” Her voice broke as she threw her hands in the air. “And obviously she was right!”

Dax’s jaw tightened as he rocked back, his face draining. “What did you say?”

“You heard me!”

He shook his head in disgust. “It seems that you and my mom have everything figured out.”

Suddenly, a tingle of uncertainty crept down Brooklyn’s spine.

A hurt expression settled over him. “I can’t believe you think so little of me after all we’ve been through.”

Oh, how she wanted to believe him, and she almost did. But the image of Dax and Cassidy, together on the couch, flashed through her mind, bringing all of her fears to a head. She lifted her chin. “I know what I saw.”

He studied her for one long moment. “Yeah, that’s the problem. You’re going off what you saw. Well, I’ve got news for you. The eyes can be tricked.” He let out a bitter laugh. “Trust me, I know.” His eyes penetrated hers. “Until you learn to see with your heart and trust it more than your eyes, then there’s no hope for us.” With that, he shook his head and walked back into the house, leaving her standing there, tears gushing down her cheeks.

* * *

Brooklyn scooped out the last bite of chocolate ice cream and placed it in her mouth. Then she leaned against the back cushion of the couch. Her stomach stretched in protest as she swallowed, feeling like a beached whale. She’d single-handedly eaten the whole pint, hoping to feed her sorrow. But it wasn’t working. She still felt as crappy as ever. It had been three days since the blowup with Dax, and she’d not heard a thing from him. She’d tried calling and texting, but he hadn’t responded. Maybe it was a lost cause. She’d let her fears override her good sense. She figured that out from his stunned expression when she told him what his mother said. But surely he had to know how guilty he looked sitting there on the couch, lips locked with Cassidy. She kept replaying the scene over in her mind. She could’ve sworn Dax had been kissing Cassidy, but she’d been so shocked, she hardly remembered what she saw. At the very least, Dax should respond to her calls and texts, so they could work this out.

Then another thought hit her, stealing her breath. Maybe Dax was relieved. Yes, he might’ve stood by Brooklyn because he made a commitment. But maybe he was secretly glad she freaked out, because it gave him an excuse to pursue things with Cassidy.

“You look like crap.”

Brooklyn looked up as Madison came into the room and plopped down on the couch beside her. “Gee, thanks,” she mumbled, raking her hair out of her face. “Just what I needed to hear.”

“What you need is a swift kick in the pants.”

Brooklyn sat up, glaring at Madison. “Yeah, it’s just like you to kick a girl when she’s down.”

Madison shook her head. “Oh, you don’t need me to kick you. You’re doing a pretty good job of that yourself.” She eyed the empty container. “Eating yourself sick won’t help. All the ice cream in the world won’t fix this.”

Brooklyn rolled her eyes and looked away.

“You need to get your butt up and work things out with Dax.”

Tears brimmed in Brooklyn’s eyes. “Don’t you think I’ve tried?” she said hoarsely. “I’ve called and texted. Nothing.”

Madison was amused. “Yes, you’ve done the wimpy things. Have you gone over there? Demand that he talk to you?”

Brooklyn shrank back into herself, crossing her arms over her chest. As much as she wanted to mend things with Dax, she didn’t have the nerve to do that. Not after she’d made a complete fool of herself. And besides that, she still wasn’t a hundred percent sure Dax was over Cassidy. What if she went over there, and he was back together with Cassidy? That would be the ultimate humiliation.

Madison looked her in the eye. “Do you love him?”

“What?”

“Do you love him?” Madison pressed.

“Of course I love him,” she retorted.

“Then prove it.”

She shook her head, tears spilling down her cheeks. “You don’t understand.”

“Yes, I understand. Very well. You’re scared to death that Dax might still have a thing for Cassidy Cline. And you’re wondering how in the heck you’ll ever measure up to someone so perfect.”

Brooklyn flinched, shocked Madison could read her so accurately. It must’ve shown on her face because Madison gave her a vindicated look. “Who wouldn’t be intimidated by Cassidy Cline?” Brooklyn asked quietly.

Madison looked her up and down. “Contrary to what you think, Cassidy Cline isn’t perfect, any more than the rest of us. And I’d wager that the majority of the pictures we see of her have been Photoshopped to the hilt.” A slight smile curved her lips. “If only you could see how great you truly are, Brooklyn, you’d be unstoppable.” When Brooklyn just sat there, Madison continued. “There’s absolutely nothing wrong with your equipment, Sis. It’s your application that needs a little work.”

“Huh?”

She sighed. “Must I spell everything out for you? You’re beautiful, smart, witty, charming. The only problem you have is that you don’t fight for what you want. You give in too easily at the first sign of trouble.” Her eyes cut into Brooklyn’s. “Do you want Dax?”

She swallowed hard. “More than anything.”

A smile ruffled Madison’s lips. “Then suck it up, mamby pampy. Fix things with Dax. Don’t let Cassidy Cline or any other person come between the two of you. Dax loves you as much as you love him. The two of you are great together.” She hesitated, her face clouding. “What I would give to find a Dax Preston.”

Madison was right. It was time to vanquish her fears, stop letting her insecurities rule her life. “Okay, I’ll go over there, talk to him.”

“Better get yourself cleaned up first. After all, Dax can see you now.”

“Ha, ha. Very funny.”

* * *

Brooklyn’s heart was in her throat as she punched Dax’s doorbell and waited. Nothing. She knocked loudly. Even though she had a key, she didn’t dare enter at this point. Was Dax home? She rang the doorbell again and knocked a few more times to no avail. Either he wasn’t home or he was avoiding her. Despondency settled over her as she walked back to her car.

The next-door neighbor waved. “Hello.”

Brooklyn stopped and pasted on a polite smile. “Hi,” she said as the thirtysomething-year-old woman with short, blonde hair approached.

“Are you looking for Dax?”

Brooklyn’s throat caught. Was Dax okay? Did he still have his eyesight, or had he lost it again? “Yes, have you seen him?”

“Not in the past couple of days.” The woman smiled. “Isn’t it wonderful about his eyesight?”

Relief surged through Brooklyn. “Yes.” Good to know everything was okay.

“I just couldn’t believe it when I heard about the treatment. And to think, it was done right here in Salt Lake. I read Dax’s getting back with Cassidy Cline.” She lowered her voice conspiratorially as she leaned in. “I saw Cassidy Cline a few days ago. It would be wonderful if the two of them got back together. I would love to have Cassidy for a neighbor,” she gushed.

Brooklyn stiffened as her heart solidified. “I need to get going.”

The woman blinked. “I hope I haven’t said anything to upset you.”

“No.” She forced a smile. “But I have somewhere I need to be.”

Before the woman could respond, Brooklyn turned on her heel and hurried to the car. So much for Madison’s great advice!

* * *

Brooklyn stepped up to the table set to perfection with the white linen tablecloth, gleaming dishes, and wheat-colored cloth napkins with silver rings. She critically eyed the arrangement in the center. Since the bride-to-be didn’t have a preference on flowers, Brooklyn had chosen yellow calla lilies and purple hyacinths for the focal flowers, adding in yellow baby’s breath and greenery. She kept it simple using a glass vase with black rocks in the bottom and water. Brooklyn made a few adjustments, added in a couple more lilies. And then, it was perfect.

The engagement dinner was being held in a private room in the farm-style reception center at Wheeler Historic Farm in Murray. In addition to the centerpiece, Brooklyn had placed half a dozen arrangements of varying sizes around the room. She added a grouping of antique trunks and accent pieces, along with a few large, green plants in natural baskets, making the space look like a fresh garden. A rustic chandelier hung in the center of the table. The rough-hewn wood on the walls and open beams on the ceiling added to the allure. Once the candles were lit after the bride-and-groom-to-be arrived, it would be perfect. The caterer was already on site, and the scrumptious smell of manicotti, roasted vegetables, and tender rolls wafted through the air. A decadent, triple-layer, chocolate cake sat in the corner. Soft music played through the speakers.

Brooklyn couldn’t help but notice the irony of the situation. She’d chosen her favorite color combination for the flowers and Italian food was her favorite, not to mention the chocolate cake. It would be a perfect evening for the lucky couple. Without warning, tears sprang to Brooklyn’s eyes. She was still trying to come to terms with the fact that she’d lost Dax. Then again, maybe he’d never truly been hers. Maybe it was all just a cruel illusion. Nicole stepped up beside her as she hastily wiped away the tears, hoping Nicole wouldn’t realize she’d been crying.

“Everything looks great. You really are talented,” Nicole breathed in admiration. “Complete perfection. This is what happens when the clients let you do things your way.”

“Thanks.” She sighed. “Well, it looks like our job here is done, at least for the next three or so hours until take down. Are you hungry? I was thinking we’d grab something to eat at Fashion Place Mall. How does Cheesecake Factory sound?”

“I’m a big fan of Cheesecake Factory.” Nicole paused, wrinkling her nose. “Although, the food here sure smells good. Too bad we can’t stay and eat it.”

Brooklyn chuckled. “Yeah, too bad. I can’t imagine why the happy couple wouldn’t want us to join them. I’ll grab my purse, and we’ll head out.” She wanted to be gone before the couple arrived, not wanting a reminder of all that she’d lost.

Nicole grabbed Brooklyn’s arm. “Shh … did you hear that?”

“Hear what?” Nicole was acting so strange. “I don’t hear anything,” Brooklyn motioned with her head. “Let’s go.”

“Oops, I almost forgot my purse. I’ll be right back. Oh, and I need to use the bathroom before we head out, too.” She winced. “Sorry.”

“Okay.” Nicole blew out a breath.

Nicole opened the door, then turned around and came back in, a quirky grin on her face.

“What now?” Brooklyn said dryly. She got the impression Nicole was stalling for some reason. Then she looked behind Nicole, her breath catching when she saw Dax and Tucker enter the room. Tucker still guided Dax like he was blind. For one tense moment, she feared that maybe he was, but then his beautiful blue eyes focused on her. And she noticed he was dressed impeccably in dark gray slacks and a navy button-up shirt. He stepped up to her, flashing a dazzling smile. “This looks incredible.”

She just stood there, mouth gaping. Somehow, she managed to find her voice. “What’re you doing here?”

He stepped closer, a hint of teasing in his eyes. “I heard there was an engagement dinner going on tonight.”

Brooklyn jerked. “What?” Her mind reeled, then she saw Nicole’s sheepish expression. She looked back and forth between Dax and Nicole as it all came together in one stunning realization. The bride allowing her to make the decision on the flowers. The manicotti … the chocolate. It had been right in front of her the entire time, but she couldn’t see it. She turned to Nicole. “You planned this.”

Nicole pressed her lips together. “Nope, I only followed orders. Dax planned it.”

“But all week I’ve been so distraught, and you let me go on, not knowing,” Brooklyn asserted.

“I was just following orders. You know what a sucker I am for a good love story.” A tentative smile trembled over Nicole’s lips. “And yours and Dax’s topped them all. I just wanted to play a small part in it.”

The irritation drained out of Brooklyn as she nodded in understanding. “Thank you.”

Nicole’s smile got bigger. “You’re welcome.” She held out her hand, “here, let me take Tucker. I’m sure I can find him a snack.”

Tucker’s head shot up as he trotted along beside Nicole.

Dax touched Brooklyn’s arm. His eyes went tender as they locked with hers. “I’m sorry about what happened the other day, and I’m sorry about the things I said.”

“I’m sorry too,” Brooklyn uttered, her gaze taking in his tousled hair, rugged features, and best of all, his mesmerizing, seeing eyes now peering into her own.

“I can only imagine how it must’ve felt when you saw Cassidy in my home …” he cleared his throat “… kissing me. I promise you, to the depth of my soul, there’s nothing between us. Cassidy took it upon herself to come. And she’s the one who leaked the story to the press about us getting back together.” His face tightened. “She admitted it after you left.” He chuckled dryly. “She assumed she could just waltz back into my life, and that I’d take her back. But what she didn’t count on was me finding the real deal.” His eyes caressed hers. “I wouldn’t take a thousand Cassidy Clines for you. You’re the love of my life.”

His words settled into her hungry heart. “I should’ve never doubted you.” Tears pooled in her eyes. “You’re right, I was looking at the situation with my eyes, when I should’ve been using my heart.”

His eyes misted. “A common mistake.”

“I won’t let it happen again.”

“Good.” Dax gathered her hands in his. “You have been the greatest blessing in my life, even greater than my eyesight. I want to be with you always.”

A cocoon of sheer happiness enveloped her as she broke into a large smile. “I want to be with you too.”

Brooklyn’s heart nearly melted when Dax got down on one knee and looked up at her. She saw again the same sparkle in his arresting eyes that had captured her when she was a youth. But now it was tempered with the grown man she loved with her whole heart and soul.

“Brooklyn Reese, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

A giggle bubbled in her throat, and then she started crying. “Yes,” she said softly. “It would be the greatest honor of my life.”

He stood and pulled her into his arms. “No, the honor’s mine.” A slow, sexy grin stole over his lips flooding warmth through her. “And, for the record, having you by my side is more exciting than any car race ever could be.”

“Really.” He tilted her head. “That’s good to know.” She returned his smile as the delicious knowledge of his words settled over her. “I always said you’re the most exciting man I’ve ever met.”

Surprise tinged his features as he laughed, then grew earnest. “I don’t know what the future holds. But come what may, we’ll have a great life … as long as we’re together.” His eyes roved over her face, as if he were memorizing every detail. “You are so beautiful,” he uttered, his voice going husky.

She touched his face, her fingers lingering close to his beautiful eyes. She could get lost in the depth of them. A flicker of anticipation wicked through her when his eyes deepened with desire. And then his lips met hers as he gave her a long, breathless kiss that sent her heart racing to the heavens above.

Yes, life was good—infinitely better than she could’ve ever imagined.