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"I preferred you miserable. You were easier to manage."

"You have never managed me."

"I've managed around you."

I laugh and hug him. His arms close around me immediately.

"I missed you."

"I saw you nine days ago."

"Still."

He pulls back. His expression softens.

"I missed you too."

I look at him, my best friend, my business partner, the person who understood before I did that loving New York didn't mean I had to belong only there.

"How's everything?"

"Busy. Profitable. Slightly less interesting without you terrorizing the kitchen every day."

"You love my terror."

"I tolerate it because you're talented."

"High praise indeed."

"The highest."

His gaze travels around the kitchen.

"This place, though."

I smile.

"I know."

"It's beautiful, Maddy."

My chest warms.

"You did it."

"We did it. Javier and me."

Julian smiles.

"You're right."

He hugs me again.

"Congratulations."

"Thank you."

Javier returns carrying three champagne glasses. Julian blinks.