Page 128 of A Bossy Roommate

“What about that little bistro where we took Auntie for lunch?” she asks. “The Sweet Spot? I’ve been dying to go back.”

“Sounds like a plan. The Sweet Spot it is. I could definitely use a dessert.”

Minutes later,I step out of Legacy for the last time and take a deep breath.

For the firsttime in years, I see endless possibilities stretched out before me. Though I often looked down on New York from my office, being here feels much better. I stand on my apartment’s rooftop, gazing at all the skyscrapers and the buildings below. None of them bear my name, yet that fact holds no significance. Maybe someday, one of them will. I found my calling when I decided to act as an adviser. My future can be everything I want it to be.

Life had thrown Eden into my arms, and I have no intention of ever letting her go.

With her by my side, anything is possible.

37

EDEN

SIX MONTHS LATER

Our marriage takes place in the dreamy Château de Chantilly in France, about thirty miles north of Paris. It’s as if the sun has painted the dreamscape! We find ourselves at an ancient castle, surrounded by a meticulously cultivated French garden, and the air is thick with the sweet scent of roses and the tune of singing birds. We can practically hear “Here Comes the Bride” chirping in the air.

And there’s Auntie, right at the front, beaming with enough pride and joy to power the whole of France (and maybe even Belgium next door). Standing with her is Hattie, her confidante, making everybody laugh by quipping, “Well, let us hope these three terrors don’t get up to too much mischief while I’m gallivanting around France—they’re probably already hatching a plot to seize control of my apartment.”

“Oh Hattie,” Auntie says with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, “if your cats pull off a plot to seize your apartment, you’ll have to start charging them rent!”

Diane,myconfidante, shares a knowing glance that suggests she remembers the day I had sprinted down the aisle,sansgroom. We silently celebrate the fact that this time, my journey to the altar will be—fingers crossed—refreshingly uninterrupted.

And let’s not forget our entourage—Gretchen, Jaylin, Lexi, Bradley, and even Mr. Bernie—all dressed to the nines, showing support like there’s no tomorrow.

Just as I feel the warmth of Carter’s touch and the confident, loud growl of his voice rumbling, “I do,” I stir from my slumber, feeling a stir in my belly, my heart still intoxicated by my beautiful dream.

I waddle to the bathroom as fast as my legs can carry me.

Normally, Carter wakes me up when it’s time for work, however, this morning, our baby has decided moving around in my belly is an easier way to get me out of bed.

How could I have known that one decision would lead to me getting everything I’d ever wanted? I had come to New York City with no money in my bank account, a broken heart, and a car that was hanging on by a windshield wiper. Now, I have a dream apartment, a wonderful husband, and in five months, our baby girl will be in our arms.

I find Carter in the gym, running on the treadmill like he does every morning. Standing in the doorway, I can’t help but smile as I watch him run.

He has his earbuds in and is already on a call. “Does that clear up any confusion?” he’s asking. “Feel free to share the report with your partners. If they need more clarification, I’d be happy to set up a conference call and go over my thoughts. Thanks, Mr. Humphries.”

I’m not sure what the client said, however, judging by the pleased expression on Carter’s face, it was positive. He ends the call and hops off the treadmill. When he sees me standing there, he takes out his earbuds. “Hey, good morning, baby. How long have you been standing there?”

“Not long. Just admiring the view.”

Carter has been working from home ever since he’d turned down Legacy’s offer. Which means he’s somehow even more buff than when we’d met. Often, he’ll take breaks by doing some lifting or running, and the results areimpossibleto ignore.

“Can’t blame you,” he teases. He picks up his towel and wipes his face as he draws closer. When he tries to give me a kiss, I wiggle away. “Carter! Ew, no, you’re all sweaty!”

“Hey. Get back here. You don’t want to give me alittlehug?”

He starts to chase me through the apartment with open arms, trying and eventually pulling me into a hug. “Carter, nooooo!” I tease, laughing. “Now you got your sweat all over me.”

“Well, I always wanted a workout buddy.”

“You did not!”

“Too bad. Guess you’re officially my ‘sweatmate’ now.” Carter kisses my neck. “Shower with me?”

“Do you even have to ask?”

---