‘All I kept thinking was that your dad can’t half move on that dancefloor. Even at my age I haven’t got that much energy!’ Guy laughed.
‘I think I did Flynn and Julia proud.’
‘Everything was exactly like in Julia’s scrapbook, down to the archway of sparklers and the secret garden. And the winter cocktails went down a treat. You should be proud of yourself.’
‘I am. Never did I think when I started to organise Miranda and David’s wedding that it would end up being Flynn and Julia’s. I’m so pleased it all came together and everyone seemed to have a great time. I know I had far too much to eat and drink. I don’t think I can face more turkey in a few hours’ time.’
Guy laughed. ‘You’ll be fine after a sleep.’
‘Dare I say it … everything seems to be okay with your mum now. Is that the case?’
‘I think tonight was just what we needed: a fun time, with no reminders of the past, just the future. She really likes you.’
‘And I really like her,’ Libby replied, standing up.
‘Where are you going?’
‘It’s gone midnight.’ She reached under the tree and pulled out an envelope wrapped with a red ribbon. ‘Your Christmas present. Merry Christmas!’ She kissed him on the cheek and sat down next to him. ‘Here.’
‘Oh my, I didn’t think about it being Christmas… I’ve not got—’
‘You don’t need to get me a present,’ Libby interrupted.
‘Of course I did. As if I’d forget.’ He reached inside his pocket and pulled out a small oblong box. ‘You first,’ he said.
Libby bit her lip as she pulled on the ribbon. Once it was undone, she looked at the box.
‘Go on, open it,’ he encouraged.
With slightly shaky fingers Libby opened the box. Resting on the silver paper was a key. Libby picked it up and turned it over in her hand before looking at Guy.
‘This is a key to Pickle’s kennel, so whenever you’re back from New York, you can feel free to take her for a walk.’
She swiped him playfully. ‘You idiot!’
Guy laughed. ‘Only joking. This key is actually the key to my heart.’
Libby pulled a face. ‘You should do stand-up.’
‘No, honestly, it is…’ He took the key and placed it on the table. ‘I might be a little drunk but … Libby Carter, you have turned me around. You have given me hope. You have made me laugh again. You have made me want to get up in the morning and hold my head high. You’ve helped me to realise that I am worthy, I deserve love and I have so much to share with someone. And just in case you’re in any doubt, I hope that someone is you.’
‘That’s good to know.’
‘The chances of you walking into my life when I was in such a bad place were definitely slim, but thank God I decided to help Flynn out and thank God Pickle escaped into your hot tub that day. No one can wear a bikini and bobble hat like you. Joking aside, I know you’re going to be on the other side of the world, but you deserve every bit of success that’s coming your way, and Holly and I will be championing you every step of the way.’ He paused. ‘You pulled off the best wedding today. Everything ran like clockwork. You’re a very special person.’
Hearing all those heartfelt words, Libby’s heart melted with happiness. ‘You’ll be making me cry in a minute.’
‘Now, in all seriousness, it’s actually a copy of the key to next door’s lodge because I’ve arranged with Flynn to stay there until the cottage is ready. So whenever you’re back, you’re more than welcome to use it.’
Libby leaned in and gave him a long, lingering kiss. ‘I can’t tell you how much this means to me.’ She held the key tightly in her hand. ‘Now open your present.’
Guy looked down at the envelope and carefully opened it. ‘Tickets?’
‘Plane tickets,’ Libby confirmed. ‘One for you and one for Holly. I’ve already checked with Cynthia that the dates work. It’s for Holly’s half-term in February. If it’s okay with you, I’d like you both to fly out.’
‘No way! This is the best present. This is brilliant. Holly will love this.’
‘I thought I’d show her the magic of the fashion house where the designs are created. During that time my designs will actually be featured on the catwalk at a local fashion show and I’d love you to come with me.’
