Page 100 of The Neighbor Trap

We make our way back downstairs to the kitchen, where the women are still gathered. They're still clustered around the island, glasses of wine in hand, deep in conversation about something that makes them all laugh.

They look up when we enter, and I hold up my left hand, letting the diamond catch the light.

“We're getting married!” I announce.

For a split second, there's silence. Then Lucy screams loudly. Avery bursts into tears and throws herself at me, nearly knocking me over. Harper starts jumping up and down, and Bella grabs my hand and examines the ring.

Olivia is crying and laughing at the same time while Maya looks around in confusion at all the commotion. And Danna walks straight to her son and pulls him into a hug.

“It's about time,” she says, loud enough for everyone to hear. “I was starting to think I'd have to propose for you.”

“You told me to do it fast,” Ethan says.

“I told you that months ago.”

“I wanted it to be perfect.”

He crosses the kitchen to wrap his arms around my waist from behind. “And she said yes.”

The celebration continues around us, but I barely notice. I'm too busy leaning back into the warmth of the man I love, my ring sparkling on my finger, my heart so full it might burst.

Six months ago, I moved to New York to escape my past. I never expected to find my future. But here he is, holding me like he'll never let go. And I have no plans to let him.

“I love you, baby,” Ethan whispers.

I turn around and slide my hands around his waist. “I love you too, baby.”

THE END