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"That was fast."

"Opening-night efficiency."

Javier hands him a glass, then gives me one. As I take it, my ring catches the light.

Julian freezes. His eyes drop to my hand, then lift to my face, then drop again.

"No."

I bite my lip.

He points at me.

"No."

"Yes."

"When?"

"About four minutes before you walked in."

His head turns toward Javier.

"You proposed to her in the kitchen?"

Javier takes a drink of champagne.

"She likes kitchens."

I laugh. Julian stares at him, then at me. Then he puts down his glass and pulls me into another hug.

"Oh, Maddy."

I hold him tight.

"This is wonderful. Congratulations."

When he releases me, he turns to Javier.

"You."

Javier raises an eyebrow. Julian hugs him too.

"Congratulations, man."

"Thanks, Julian."

"Take care of her."

Javier looks at me.

"Always."

Something warm moves through my chest. Javier heads toward the walk-in refrigerator. Julian watches him disappear. Then looks at me again.

“Maddy, you’re getting married.”

“I know.”