Even though she was shocked, Bianca’s arms tightened around him. “I don’t believe it!” she said, her eyes scanning his face for any sign he was lying. “And why…” she looked at his wrist, “why are you still wearing the bracelet I gave you if you don’t love me?”

Dave raised his wrist. The moonlight cast a sad glow on the rosewood bracelet, a reminder of their fading love.

With a heavy heart, he took it off, his fingers breaking the delicate string, and the beads ...