Page 286 of Delicious

“Please tell me that’s not a real thing you guys do here!”

“It’s like listening to your parents bang, eww.”

I pull Pete into my arms and kiss the top of his head. “Surprise, babe.”

“You could have warned me,” he murmurs against my chest,but I can hear the way he’s grinning from ear to ear.

We all have a slice of cake and a glass of champagne to celebrate. Bella and Roe argue over where we should hang the new plaque while Benjamin tries to get the radio to play his favorite station.

“I love you,” I whisper so only Pete can hear. “And I’m so fucking proud of you.”

“I’m proud too,” he says, looking at me softly. “But I wasn’t lying. I don’t think I would have been able to do this without your unwavering support, Rodney. Thank you.”

We share a soft kiss that’s interrupted by Marigold making over-the-top gagging noises. We spend the afternoon drinking, eating cake, and talking about all the ways we’re going to expand someday. I’m surrounded by the family I’ve made my own, with the man I love.

Not even a fresh slice of pepperoni pizza could top this.

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