Cole Skylar Sierra NovelHe Missed Nine Engagements for Her, and I Finally Walked Away

Cole missed another engagement dinner because Sierra cried over something trivial.

He told me to stop complaining.

He told me to understand their bond.

When I confronted him, he defended her before he even looked at me.

That was the moment my patience ended.

I took off the ring, placed it on the table, and walked out.

If he can show up for her every time, he can lose me.

My boyfriend has a buddy who he treats like a sister, and theyre practically inseparable.

On the day we were supposed to get engaged for the ninth time, he ditched me at the venue.

Why? Because it was their 20th friendship anniversary.

Its just a delayed engagement. No need to rush. Are you really worried that no one will marry you?

Her latest Instagram Story popped up, and it felt like a thorn in my eye.

Twenty years of friendship. How could someone like you ever compare?

They hugged, looking way too cozy for just friends.

I tossed the ring into a trash can.

A cab driver waved me over and asked, Where to?

Just drive, I replied. Anywhere but back.

When Cole Delaneys calls started coming in, I turned my phone off.

It stayed off for three days.

The night breeze by Santa Monica Pier felt calming, lifting the hem of my red dress. It reminded me of the first time Cole told me he loved me.

He had been so young and awkward, his feelings written all over his face, impossible to hide.

I had fallen hard for 20-year-old Cole.

I even left my hometown of Austin, Texas, and moved to the unfamiliar Midwest for him.

I quit a job I loved to become his secretary, a role I held for nine years.

Fate sure has a twisted sense of humor. We got engaged nine times.

And each time, she got in the way.

Her name is Sierra Stokes. We fought about her more times than I can count.

Ive told you, Sierra and I are just friends. Why are you so insecure?
Weve shared everything since we were kidseven baths. Do you really think its anything more?
Skylar Quinn, youre acting like a jealous maniac! Sierras already forgiven you for stalking us. What else do you want?

Coles expression darkened during those arguments.

After each fight, Id pick up my feelings, wipe my tears, and apologize.

I was terrified of losing him, so I always gave in first.

But this time, I felt nothing. No anger, no sadnessjust a calm desire to stay by the ocean, doing nothing and feeling at peace.

Cole found me without much trouble.

I forgot that the hotel I booked was one of his. He burst into my room without warning.

Skylar Quinn, running away is such a childish move.

It was Sierra and Is 20th anniversary as friends. We were just celebrating! Cant I have friends besides you?

Friends. Right.

Friends who kiss?

I kept that thought to myself. I knew hed dismiss it as just a game.

Not like it would be the first time.

Sierra and I have nothing going on. Stop sulking, okay?

His furrowed brows softened as he looked at me, almost concerned.

Ill make it up to you with a bigger wedding. Sierra can even be your maid of honor. Will that make you happy?

His voice had a soothing tone.

I remained silent, making his brows knit together again.

Skylar, if you dont

Fine, I interrupted.

The old me wouldve argued until I caved and apologized. But now? I just smiled faintly.

My unexpected compliance caught him off guard, but he quickly masked it with a relieved smile. He reached for my hand. Lets go home.

I pulled my hand away coldly and walked ahead of him.

Cole paused, stunned for a moment.

No fight? He didnt know how to deal with that.

When I reached his car, Sierra was already waiting.

There you are, Skylar! Coles been freaking out trying to find you! She pouted, playfully scolding him. I told you we shouldve brought her to the anniversary, but nooo. Look what happenedshes jealous again!

Skylar, Im really sorry for him. Dont be mad, okay? If you are, Ill hit him for you! She pretended to punch Coles chest but ended up in his arms.

Still the charmer, huh? Cole smirked at her.

Ugh, stop holding me like that! Sierra blushed and squirmed, glancing at me. Skylars watching. Are you trying to scare her off again?




I ignored them and quietly took the backseat without looking up.

Id fought so many times over the front passenger seat. If Sierra was around, it was always hers.

She gets carsick unless shes next to me, Cole explained.
I seethed, baffled.
He thought I was being petty.

This time, I said nothing, and Cole looked a bit surprised.

As the car started, Sierra turned to me.
Skylar, youve lost so much weight in just two days. Let me take you to dinner to apologize for Cole?

Next time, I promise youll be invited to our hangouts!

No need, I replied sharply. Just take me home.

Cole ignored me and drove to a restaurant instead.
You look like you havent eaten properly. Stop being stubborn.

The car stopped in a busy area filled with restaurants.

Sierra tugged at his arm and said, Cole, I want a Matcha Latte!

Youre about to start your period. No iced drinks.

They acted like a couple.

He knew her body better than he ever knew mine.

At the restaurant, the server brought us lemon water.

Sierra grabbed Coles glass, sipping it.
Yours is so sour! she giggled, scrunching her nose.

Cole smiled fondly, pinching her cheek.
Youve got to stop stealing my stuff.

Then Sierra turned to me.
Skylar, youre not mad, right? Weve always shared everything since we were kids.