Chapter Eighty-Two
Malachi's POV
I wasn't happy about the anniversary party. The celebration of Travis and Alicia's marriage was like a knife twisting in my chest. Three years of her being bound to my pathetic excuse for a brother. Three years of pretending their union meant something when it was nothing but a business arrangement.
But I could use this as an excuse. An opportunity disguised as torture.
I needed to get Alicia a gift. Something that showed her what she meant to me without being too obvious to the rest of the family.
"Rose," I said during our afternoon call. "I need you to come with me somewhere."
"Where?"
"Jewelry shopping."
There was a pause. "For Alicia?"
"Yes."
"Malachi—"
"One hour. Meet me downtown."
I ended the call before she could argue.
