Page 89 of A Slice of Courage Quiche

They left Tessa standing in the foyer. Paul walked up the hallway with a look of concern. “You okay?”

Tessa clasped her hands together in front of her chest. “It’s been the perfect day. My cheeks ache from smiling. Anna and Eli’s wedding was beautiful, and they’re so happy with how everything turned out. The reception is the best kind of party for the town to enjoy, and Mrs. Steele made a surprise visit. She loves the house. I don’t see how this day could get any better.”

Paul reached into his coat pocket and pulled out his cell phone. He opened an airline app and handed the phone to Tessa. “What if I told you that we need to leave early tomorrow morning if we’re going to make the flight?”

The app displayed two tickets, one with Paul’s name and one with hers. “What flight?”

Paul grinned. “The flight for our next adventure.” He tugged her body closer to his. “You know the travel outlet put this article on hold for months, but they’re finally ready for me to finish it, so I’m taking you to the Cook Islands. You’ve been working nonstop on this house for the past six months, not to mention youdidn’tquit your day job. You deserve a vacation in a place where they have those little paper umbrellas garnishing your tropical drinks.”

Tessa swiped through the digital tickets again. “This flight leaves tomorrow night from Atlanta. I’m not packed. I have work­—”

“Lily started packing for you. She said she knew exactly what you needed to take,” Paul said. “And your mom agreed to handle all your clients while you’re gone. It’s all been arranged. All you have to do is say yes.”

Tessa’s mouth dropped open. “Everyoneknew?”

Paul pressed a kiss to her lips. “We’ve been plotting behind your back for weeks. What do you say, Tess?”

A laugh of surprise and pleasure widened her smile. She threw her arms around Paul’s neck. “I was wrong. The perfect day just got better. Take me on an adventure, Borelli.”