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Parker’s head tilted, curiosity shining in her eyes. “How do you know that?”
“I told her you were on a plane, and she wouldn’t be able to reach you until you landed tomorrow.”
“I appreciate the try, but she won’t believe that. She’ll figure it out.”
“Not if you actually get on the plane.” I reached into my pocket and pulled out the flight information. “I hope it’s okay, but I booked you a flight. I have a friend in Milan who had taken a broken me under her wing and taught me everything she knew about wine and life. She is one of my dearest friends, and she offered to let you stay with her for a few weeks until you figure out your next steps.”
Parker's eyes widened. “What? You can’t be serious.”
“Oh, she’s very serious,” Laurent said, leaning against the door. “I left the car running downstairs, so if you hurry you can get to the airport with enough time to have a drink before you have to board.” He smiled. “Words of wisdom from my mother. Speaking of which, both my parents will be going through Milan in the next couple of weeks. You don’t have to, but they love to talk, eat, and drink wine, so I can ask them to make a stop your way. They know all the best restaurants.”
“That would be great. I mean, with you two getting married, they’re practically my family now, too.”
I glanced at my ring and then at Laurent. A smile passed between us. If Parker only knew the path it took us to get here.
“Oh my god, is that the ring!” Parker grabbed my hand and sighed. “It’s gorgeous.”
“It was Laurent’s grandma’s.”
“How romantic,” she sighed. “I’ll be back for your wedding. Have you set a date yet?”
Without looking away from Laurent, I said, “October twentieth.” His eyebrow arched, and a smile spread wide across my face. “I always wanted to be a fall bride.”
“Eep!” Parker jumped up and clapped. “This is so exciting! We’re both starting our new beginnings.” She hugged me again. “Oh my god, I have to pack.” She took off into my bedroom, rattling the closet and god knows what else. Laurent stepped away from the door, snaking his hand around my waist and pulling me close.
“A fall bride, huh?”
I nodded. “And the barn at the vineyard is the perfect setting, if Sherry doesn’t already have it booked.”
“I think I can pull some strings.”
He dipped his head, capturing my lips and giving me a preview of our first kiss at the altar. Passionate and hungry, yet soft and sweet like us—the perfect balance.
“I’m going to Italy!” Parker yelled, and Laurent slowly pulled from my lips. “Oh sorry! I didn’t realize you two were well, yeah, that. Continue. I need to finish packing.”
This time I didn’t wait, I closed the gap between us, kissing my man with all I had.
My feet were firmly planted, warm and ready to walk beside this amazing man for as long as life would let me.
***
