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ETHAN

One Year Later

Natalie's family Christmas party is everything I remember it being, but this is the first time I've attended where I'm old enough to drink. It definitely shines a light on why so many of these get-togethers were so wacky when I was a kid hanging out with Ryan.

They're more fun now, that's for sure. But I don't think it's the alcohol. I think it's the woman next to me, her hand strategically placed in her coat pocket as we get a breath of fresh, chill air. Ryan has joined us, and it's just like old times.

Well, except for the fact that Natalie and I are a couple. But that's a definite improvement.

"Why do they keep it so damn hot in there?" Ryan asks, fanning himself even in the nearly freezing outdoors.

"Because they're old," Natalie replies. "Old people always think it's freezing."

We all laugh, and I put my arm around her waist, tugging her close. She rests her head against my shoulder, and a wave of contentment rolls over me. Ryan looks at us smugly, like he has since the moment we announced that we were officially dating. He sees himself as the heroic brother and friend who brought us together when, in reality, I think Natalie and I have been destined to be together no matter what.

We've let Ryan have his fun, though. Tonight, we're going to shock him, and this is as good a time as ever.

I blow into my cold hands, giving Natalie a meaningful look. She nods, giddy.

"Ryan," I start. "We have to tell you something. We wanted you to know first before we tell the rest of the family."

"We're engaged!" Natalie squeals, holding out her left hand to show the diamond solitaire ring I put there just last week. Ryan drops his glass of champagne. I grab it before it can hit the porch floor, setting it on the railing in front of us.

"We know how badly you want to be the center of attention. This time, you'll have to share the limelight, brother." I clap him on the shoulder, feeling on top of the world.

"I'll share with the world. With everyone, if it means I can finally have my two best friends together. It was all I ever wanted." Ryan picks his glass back up. "A toast! To finally getting your heads out of your asses and getting together."

It's not the toast I would have made, but it's classic Ryan. Laughing, Natalie and I touch glasses, and when she kisses me, I don’t even feel the cold.

“I love you, Nat. Yesterday, today, tomorrow.”

Tears brim her eyes as she smiles up at me. “I love you. Yesterday, today, tomorrow.”

The End

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