Page 123 of Safe Place

I glance over, and she’s still admiring her ring.

“I love you, Mrs. Vale,” I say quietly, pressing a kiss to the back of her hand before resting it over my chest.

“I love you too,” she murmurs, her voice soft and steady.

The second we walk into our penthouse, Sophie freezes.

Luke’s standing by the kitchen island, arms folded, smug smile already in place. Grant pops up from the couch, holding a paper plate full of cookies, and Poppy’s there too, setting down what looks like a homemade card on the counter. Wyatt and Kate are near the window, standing close—too close—and I swear he’s got his hand on the small of her back like he’s guarding her from a sniper.

“Surprise,” Luke says, way too casual.

Sophie’s hand tightens in mine. “What is this?”

“We figured since you two didn’t want any witnesses to your wedding,” Grant says with a grin. “We’d celebrate with you here.”

Sophie blinks, then laughs, the kind that starts shy but turns real as she looks around. “You guys…”

“We kept it small,” Luke adds. “Just the essentials.”

He’s not wrong. It’s just the five of them. And the first thing I notice is the one thing not here—alcohol. No champagne. No wine. Nothing. Just lemonade, soda, sparkling water, and plates of snacks. I told them all weeks ago that this place would be a no-drinking zone from now on. Not with Sophie living here, with her history. And they’ve respected it without question.

Even Grant, who usually treats alcohol like an accessory, is sipping lemonade like it’s fine wine.

Still, I pause when I see Kate. She’s barely said two words to me in her life—probably not even one to Sophie. But she’s here, tight at Wyatt’s side, and he’s steering her through the room with quiet protectiveness. It’s not casual. He’s shielding her, making sure no one bumps into her, guiding her like she’s something fragile.

This can’t be easy for Poppy. She keeps glancing their way when she thinks no one’s looking. Her smile is tight. Her hands are fidgeting. But she’s trying, for Sophie’s sake. Trying to be okay. She doesn’t know why Wyatt’s being like this. And by the look of it, they’re still keeping Kate’s pregnancy on the down low.

Eventually, Poppy walks over.

“Congratulations,” she says, pulling Sophie into a soft hug. “Really. I’m so happy for you, Soph.”

“Thanks, Pop,” Sophie says, voice warm.

Poppy turns to me. “Take care of her, okay?”

“I will.”

“You’re lucky,” she says, giving me a small, meaningful look. “You landed someone special.”

I slip my arm around Sophie and press a kiss to her temple. “Trust me,” I say, “I know.”

“How is it with Grant?” Sophie asks gently, her voice light but curious.

Poppy laughs. “It’s great. A lot of fun, actually. Though I’ve learned earplugs are non-negotiable—he has someone over, like, four nights a week, and they’re loud.”

Sophie winces playfully. “Too much information.”

Poppy shrugs. “Just the truth. But yeah, he’s a good roommate. Sweeter than he lets people see.”

“I’m glad,” Sophie says. Then, softer, “But if you ever change your mind, we’ve got a room here for you. No pressure. Just…always an option.”

Poppy’s smile falters for half a second before she nods. “Thanks, Soph.”

She looks over her shoulder, her eyes landing briefly on Wyatt and Kate—laughing quietly in the corner like they’re in their own little world. Wyatt’s still got his hand on her back, guiding her with that protective ease.

“I think I’m gonna take off,” Poppy says suddenly, turning back to us. Her voice is calm, but her eyes say more than she lets on. “It’s just kind of hard. Seeing them like that.”

Sophie opens her mouth, but Poppy steps in for a quick hug. “I’m fine. Really. I just need a bit of space tonight.”