Page 28 of Flung

Epilogue

Colton

Two Years Later

“Do you know how hard it was to find All Dressed chips on this side of New York?” I asked, coming into the apartment.

Emma looked up, grinning. “But you found them?”

“Yeah, I found them. Took me seven different stores, but I found them.”

I tossed her the bag. She caught them, immediately tearing it open.

Marilyn, sitting on the couch beside Emma, laughed. “You two are perfect for each other. I guess that’s why you got married, huh?”

I shrugged. “I didn’t think I was marrying such a pest, but…”

“Watch it.” Emma smiled, a chip held in one hand. “I’m only a pest because I’m pregnant. And you know how moody I’ve been. Don’t tempt fate.”

“All right, all right.” I moved to sit in the armchair. “How’s the party-planning going?”

Marilyn shot me a look. “It’s not a party, it’s a shower. Big difference.”

“Okay, then, how’s the shower planning?”

“Great!” Marilyn was immediately all smiles. “I’ve already got the cake on order, and my florist is sending me final proofs of the arrangements today. And we got all kinds of food catered, so Miss Emma here can eat whatever she wants.”

Emma nodded. “There’s a Chipotle burrito bar, and a breakfast station, and a crazy dessert buffet.”

I chuckled. “I know I told you two to go crazy, but isn’t this excessive?”

“Not at all!” Marilyn laughed. “Emma deserves the best. Especially since it’s her first baby.”

“Fair enough,” I replied, nodding. “And obviously, I don’t need to ask about the venue. Just make sure it’s all cleaned up before we have to open.”

“Oh, we’ll be done by five, don’t worry.” Marilyn smiled. “And you’ll be there, too, of course.”

“Oh, will I? Do you need a DJ?”

Emma laughed, shaking her head. “No, but I need my husband. And the baby needs their father.”

That made my chest feel warm. “Well. I think I can rearrange my schedule and pencil you in. Saturday at two?”

“Yeah.” Emma nodded. “Saturday at two.”

I nodded. “Sounds good. And hey, you know what? I’m feeling generous. I’ll provide the champagne. And the really good sparkling grape juice for Em.”

“So kind of you to contribute.” Marilyn grinned. She knew I was footing the bill but never missed a chance to tease me.

It was fine. I loved it. I loved seeing Emma happy.

And we could only get happier from here.