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He takes it, glances at it, and puts it in an inner pocket of his jacket.

“Should she rest in bed for a day or two when we get home?”

“No, no need. The exam was good.”

“So any activity’s okay? She can exercise and have sex?”

The young doctor nods with a smile.

Trick nods as well, returning her smile, though he’s not yet relaxed. “We appreciate your help.”

Afterward, we sign forms and they discharge us almost immediately. It’s unbelievably efficient.

When I ask how it could’ve gone so quickly, he only says, “I know people.”

From there, we pick up more of my clothes from my house and then return to the C Crue compound in Coynston. In Connor’s house there is a crate of ginger ale among the groceries.

“Are we living here?”

“For a bit,” Trick says. “Do you want an upstairs or downstairs guest room? The one down here has its own bathroom. ‘Vil and Rachel said either one is okay for them.”

“Are we all living here?”

“For a little while.”

I weigh that in my mind and decide I’m okay with it. “Upstairs.”

“You sure? ‘Vil wanted it made clear you can have whatever room you want.”

That’s sweet and generous of him since when he and Rachel stay upstairs they have to lug a baby and baby gear up and down. “Move downstairs? And give up the Liberace bathroom? I don’t think so.”

Trick laughs and picks up a black velvet box with a light gray satin ribbon from the counter. Setting it in front of me, he nods for me to take it.

“What’s this?”

“From Anvil and Rachel.”

“They didn’t need to do that.”

“Her whole throat is black and blue, so I guess they think they did.”

“I didn’t save her. We both saved each other.”

Trick taps the box. “Come on.”

I smile at his impatience. Zoe is right when she says no secret is safe around him. “Maybe I’ll wait,” I tease.

“Wait?” he scoffs.

I chuckle.

He tugs the ribbon, unfurling the knot.

“Hey, don’t. It’s mine,” I say, pulling it toward me.

“I know it’s yours. Open it.” He tugs again on the ribbon, which falls off.

Laughing, I lift the box’s lid and peer in. “Oh, wow,” I say, raising a stunning eyelet lace and pearl wedding veil that will match my dress perfectly. “I told Rachel and Zoe I still needed a veil. It’s beautiful.”