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While I retrieved the Certificate of Authenticity from the drawer, Willow wrapped up his painting. He exited the gallery with a smile.

I closed the gallery early and gave Willow the rest of the day off. She was thrilled to hang out with her new boyfriend, Andy.They’d been dating for a month, and Andy seemed to be the perfect guy for her.

Each of the girls brought snacks for the gathering. Vivian brought some wine. I had juice and water in the fridge for my pregnant friends.

Kiera sat down and rubbed her belly. “I can’t believe you eloped, got married, and had your honeymoon all in three days.” Her tummy had grown bigger since the last time I’d seen her.

“It was efficient for sure.” Vivian smiled. “No delays. No distractions. Glad you did it.”

Audri scooped some fruit into the bowl. “Maybe Remi and I could do this.”

“You surprised us all,” Michelle said. “We knew it wasn’t real, but you guys did things fast.”

“Did you try to make babies in Maui?” Natalie asked.

Everyone burst out laughing, and my face burned as I remembered what we’d done.

“Her pink face says it all.” Kiera pointed at me.

“How is he in bed?” Vivian asked.

“Fabulous. Unforgettable. Incomparable.”I grinned. “Amazingly thick.”

Audri choked on her wine, laughing. “I guess he’s a keeper.”

“We like them thick, don’t we, girls?” Elena rubbed her belly.

“We sure do.” Natalie grabbed a cucumber slice and dipped it in the ranch dish.

“Eloping could be the new trend. Do you mind if I write an article about it?” Elena asked. “I think the readers of Musepaper will find this new trend innovative for working women and men.”

“People want to save money these days,” said Vanessa. “Weddings are expensive. If you can squeeze everything into three days, why not?”

“Was it your idea?” Kiera asked.

“No. He planned it all. I was completely surprised but also glad I didn’t have to do anything.”

“How’s your SSG mission going?” Elena asked.

I looked around the table at these women who had become my friends—my family. “I have something to tell you guys.”

When I was done, they gawked at me.

“For Your Heart Only mission is complete!” Vivian clinked glasses with us.

“I can’t believe you both exchanged those precious words already.” Elena smiled warmly. “I mean, I can. The attraction between the two of you is off the charts. I feel uncomfortable standing near you.”

“Stop it. It’s not that strong.”

“It’s strong, honey,” Kiera said. “And that’s coming from a preggo woman who has unstable hormones.”

I opened my mouth to comment about unstable hormones creating irrational thoughts, but I didn’t want to start a war of words with a pregnant woman. So I asked, “Do you think we’re moving too fast?”

Audri held up a grape between her fingers. “That’s a hard question. Each relationship is unique. You just started dating, but he’s known you for a while. Plus, he’s been obsessed with your art for years.” She popped the grape into her mouth and chewed. “I think you’re moving at a pace that’s perfect for both of you.”

“Audri’s right.” Vivian sipped her wine. “We’re all different. Some people experience love at first sight, and that works for them.”

“I can tell he loves you,” Elena said.