Page 136 of Let’s Be Real

I would really love you to come this time. Karl is great. I think you and Nate would actually like him. Mom and Dad don’t approve, and I couldn’t be happier about that!

I miss you so much. I was a trash sister to you, and I regret it every day.

Even if you don’t come to my wedding, I’d love to see you.

Coffee maybe?

Please text or call. I miss you!

Love,

Kelly

I took the invitation back from Nate and stuffed it, along with her note, back into the envelope.

“That’s a no then,” he said.

“It’s been a no for more than two years.” I let my head fall on his shoulder and sighed. “I hope this guy is what she says and she’ll be happy, but nothing’s changed. I can’t get tangled up with her. It’s not good for me.”

He cupped the side of my head and sifted through my hair. “I’m so fucking proud of you, sweet girl.”

“Me too.” Turning my head, I nuzzled his throat. “I’m proud of me too.”

For a while, I’d worried standing my ground would be a challenge and I’d eventually feel something was missing.

But that never came.

How could it? I had a busy life, a career I loved, the best friend I could have ever asked for, the rest of the Wells clan, and my Nate. My sweet, sweet Nate.

I was so rich with love, I wanted for nothing. And I hadn’t had to earn my place; I’d been welcomed into it.

Tossing the envelope to the ground, I wrapped my arms around my husband.

I had everything I needed.