“What do you mean you got married?” she asks, like she’s trying to make sense of it. “Like, actually married?”
I nod.
“It was… quick,” I admit. “We did it in private. No one else there except the guys.”
“Are you kidding me?” she breathes, leaning back slightly. “Why?”
“Because of his family,” I explain, my voice quieter now. “Taking his name means I’m under their protection. It gives me access to things I wouldn’t have otherwise.”
She processes that slowly, her expression shifting as it settles.
“And Zach and Jackson?” she asks.
“They were there,” I say. “It doesn’t change anything between us. It just means… legally, I’m his wife.”
She lets out a breath, shaking her head slightly.
“That’s… a lot.”
“I know.”
She looks at me again, something softer returning to her expression.
“And you didn’t think to invite me?” she adds, a small edge of humor slipping into her voice despite everything.
A weak smile pulls at my lips.
“It wasn’t exactly planned,” I say. “I found out that morning. By that night, it was done.”
Her eyes widen slightly.
“Wait, was that the day we went dress shopping?”
I nod.
“The dress Jackson bought me.”
She stares at me for a second before letting out a soft huff.
“Wow,” she mutters. “Okay. Well… I guess we’re doing a belated hen’s day then.”
A small laugh escapes me, unexpected but real.
“I guess we are.”
The moment softens slightly.
Just enough.
“There’s something else,” I say quietly.
Her eyes narrow slightly.
“What do you mean something else?”
I swallow.
“I’m pregnant.”
