Page 166 of Pretend You Love Me

“You look beautiful.” There are tears in Mom’s eyes. “I never thought I see you like this - grown up, happy, having children of your own.”

I squeeze her hand. “I’m so glad you’re here.”

“Me too.”

We make our way inside to the Rose garden. Elizabeth has decorated it beautifully with linen covered tables and elegant flower arrangements. I make my way over to her.

“Thanks for everything.” I squeeze her hand.

She rubs my back. “Nothing makes me happier.”

I spot Kip speaking to Will and James. He’s completely relaxed and smiling. I’m glad he’s not terrified of James anymore. I overhear James say as I join them, “I think it’s your best one yet. Congratulations on all your success.”

Kip’s face reddens slightly, and Will’s nodding in agreement. “Have you started anything new?”

“I’ve been trying to get a lot done before the babies come. I’m planning to take time off for a few months when they arrive. I just polished up two screenplays that I wrote a decade ago and sold them. I have another novel in the works. I’m pretty far into it. Not sure the first draft will be finished in time though. It’s okay if it has to wait.”

“I’ll do my best to keep them inside as close to their due date as possible,” I say.

Kip squeezes my shoulder. “Well, I do want them to stay inside as long as possible, but not for my sake.”

Someone pulls James and Will away. My arm is wrapped around Kip’s waist, his around my shoulder.

“You know we met a year ago next month,” he says as we watch our friends and family mingle.

“Feels like longer.”

“I hope that’s a good thing.” He shoots me a side-long look.

“It is!” I say.

“It’s not that long when you’re thinking about forever.” He grins over at me.

“That’s true. The adventure is just getting started.” I lean toward him, letting my mouth drift toward his.

“I’m so glad I’m doing it with you.” He dips his head down, so his lips just hoover over mine.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” I say as I press my lips to his.