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Mel turns into a gated community but the guard in the little shack waves him by with a smile and calls out, "Merry Christmas."
"My son lives very near your girl," she says. "In fact, I believe I know her. Pretty girl with short dark curly hair?"
"Yes," I say, "that sounds like her." I picture her gorgeous curls and my fingers ache to run through her silky hair.
"Here we are." Mel double parks on a street lined with massive houses, all decked out in their holiday finest. A steady stream of people are walking toward Kit's house.
Oh shit. A whole party?
I guess this is my Jerry Maguire moment. I reach for the door handle, then lean over and kiss Phyllis on the cheek. "Thank you. For everything."
"My pleasure, dear."
I jump out of the car and trot up the steps, my heart thudding in my chest.
* * *
KIT
Peter and I join the rest of the party and I feel like there's a huge weight off my shoulders. Except for the fact that instead of announcing our engagement, we need to tell our parents we won't be seeing each other again.
I'm happy for him. He's pursuing his dream. Following his heart.
He's no chicken.
What the hell is wrong with me? I can encourage Peter to buck tradition but I can't do it myself?
I look around at all the guests. They've been sneaking peeks at Peter and me all evening and then giving us funny conspiratorial looks like they know what's going to happen. Like everyone is in on a big secret.
Well, won't they be surprised when they find out the truth?
There'll be no living with my mother.
I don't care. I have to get to Montana. Plead my case in person instead of over the phone like a coward.
I kiss Peter on the cheek and say, "I'm sorry, but I have to go right now."
"To Montana?" he whispers.
I nod and he grins. "Let me drive you to the airport."
He grabs my hand and tugs me toward the door. I'm sure the people around us think we're so in love we must be alone. I don't have time to explain and frankly, it's none of their damned business.
We get to the door but before I touch the handle, it comes open and standing there in the doorway is the most beautiful sight I've ever seen.
Adam!
I throw myself into his arms. "You're here."
"Yes," he says, "and I'm not leaving without you." He glares at Peter. "She's mine. You can't have her."
Peter shrugs. "I know."
Adam looks puzzled. "Really? You've got the most wonderful girl in the world and you're willing to give up with a shrug?"
"Adam, sweetheart," I say, turning his face to mine, "Peter was taking me to the airport. So I could go to Montana. To you. Where I belong."
"Damn right that's where you belong."
