Eric had no clue about Ruth's true intentions. He had made his choice, and there wasn't much he could say about it.

Even with Sylvester's wedding looming, Eric and Sylvia couldn't interfere much—work beckoned at the appointed hour.

-

As noon approached, Ruth arrived, adorned with the necklace they had picked out at the Rosewood Estate yesterday.

Eric's mind went blank. He seemed to have discerned this woman's motives.

"Haven't left yet?" Eric asked casually.

Ruth smiled faintly. "Why the r