Page 69 of Real Scale Blazer

“Earth’s paranormal singles need all the help they can get, darling.” Gerri’s blue eyes sparkled. “Besides, I have a feeling you’ll all be too busy planning a double wedding to miss me.”

She hugged Quinn tightly. “I’m so proud of you, honey. You found your perfect match - in love and in science.”

To Kai, she said, “Take care of her. And maybe work on that chicken impression.”

“Thank you,” he said solemnly. “For bringing me my mate.”

“Oh honey, I just opened the door. You two did all the hard work.” She turned to Lydia and Darian. “And you two... well, let’s just say I always planned for a two-for-one special.”

With a final wink and a wave, Gerri Wilder disappeared in a shower of sparkles, leaving behind the scent of sugar cookies and satisfaction.

The newly engaged couples stood together on the balcony, watching Nova Aurora’s auroras dance across the sky. The ring on Quinn’s finger caught the light, Earth diamond and Aurora crystal creating something entirely new - like their love, like their future.

“To Gerri,” Lydia proposed a toast, snuggling closer to Darian.

“To Earth customs,” Kai added, pulling Quinn close.

“To love,” Quinn finished, “in all its scientifically improbable forms.”

The AI walls flashed pink in celebration, and somewhere in the palace, Gerri’s karaoke machine started playing “At Last” entirely on its own.

Some things, after all, were simply meant to be.

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