Page 122 of Je T'aime, Actually

“When do you think we should tell them?” Monroe asked, glancing down at her finger, at the simple ring she’d slid on it. “I can’t believe none of them have noticed.” She laughed.

Chloé grinned. “Maybe at the wedding? Just send them an invitation.”

Kitty looked up at them laughing together and shielded her eyes with her hand. “What’s so funny?”

Monroe turned to her and beckoned her over.

“What?” Kitty whispered when she was close enough for Monroe to pull her onto her lap. “Why are we doing secret squirrels?”

“Because Chloé and I have a secret, and we are wondering how long it will take for your mum and dad to notice.”

Kitty frowned. “What kind of secret?”

Monroe raised her hand and flashed Kitty the ring. “Chloé asked me to marry her,” Monroe whispered.

Kitty’s eyes went wide, she made an “eek” sound before covering her mouth quickly to hold in the escalating excitement.

Chloé laughed harder. “Oh, this is crazy. We should just tell them, then we can open the Champagne.”

“No,” Kitty and Monroe both said together, giggling like conspiratorial grannies at the bingo.

“That’s no fun,” Kitty said. “Benji would never notice, probably…he’s too busy chasing balls.”

From her spot on the blanket, Poppy pushed herself up onto her elbows and pulled her sunglasses down to look at the three of them.

“What are you all conspiring about?”

Kitty laughed, shook her head and said dramatically, “Nothing. What on earth would we have to talk about?”

“You can pull the other one.” Poppy grinned, turning her attention to Monroe. “Well?”

Monroe glanced at Chloé, who nodded, “Yes.” Then she turned to Kitty, who shook her head, “No.” But then she looked at her friend, and the urge to share her happiness took over. She held her hand up.

“Is that what I think it is?” Poppy said, pushing herself up into a crouch and then standing. She marched over to Monroe, grabbed her hand, and stared.

“They’re getting married,” Kitty announced.

Frank and Benji both stopped, the ball running away and settling in the bushes.

“Married?” Frank called out.

“We’re getting married.” Monroe laughed.

“Can I get the Champagne now?” Chloé grinned, leaning in and kissing Monroe’s cheek. “We can celebrate now,non?”

“Oui, ce serait parfait, en fait,” Monroe said in perfect French, because it was perfect, actually.