Page 233 of The Friend Situation

“I love you too, gorgeous.” He grins wide, twirling my hair between his fingers, admiring me like artwork. “It’s because you started saying yes.”

I laugh against his lips. “Touch the watch, wear the ring, right?”

“Steal my heart, wear the ring,” he says.

“I didn’t steal anything, Weston. You gave it to me.”

“Because it belonged to you,” he admits, his lips brushing across mine. “You were my missing piece.”

“You know, during our one year anniversary of meeting, how you told me to make a wish?” I ask, meeting his eyes.

He nods.

“You are what I wished for.”

EPILOGUE

BILLIE

One Week Later

In my corner office, I stand at the far wall of windows. The early morning sunlight glimmers off the surrounding structures, creating a dazzling display of reflections. Bursts of yellows and pinks stretch across the skyline, painting the horizon with the hues of a new day.

In the distance, I can see the corporate office of Calloway Diamonds. It looms there—a stark reminder of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I refused. Instead, I started a clothing company with my best friend. We’re self-made billionaires. Behind my desk is Banks Advertising and Marketing firm. I refuse to look that way, knowing Asher Banks’ office is directly across mine. That asshole purchased the property just to troll me, a reminder that he exists.

My office building stands tall in the center of Lower Manhattan. Its sleek, modern design is a sharp contrast to the more traditional architecture around it. The building gives the illusion of a crystal palace, which is why it’s nicknamed that. Itsshimmering surfaces evoke a sense of sophistication and luxury, just like Bellamore.

We’re one of the fastest-growing fashion companies in the world, and expansion comes with pains. In this industry, the ones who aren’t afraid to pivot and take risks survive.

Before I drown in my thoughts, I move to my desk and open the bottom drawer. I pull out the laptop and slide it into a padded envelope, along with a letter I wrote.

I open it one last time and read over my words.

Carlee,

I had Lexi let me into your apartment because she still had a key. I took your laptop. She also gave me the password, so I didn’t have to hack it. Now that those questions are answered, you and my brother needed a push in the right direction. I knew he’d save the day once this went missing. And look at you now.

I’m sorry for the stress I caused you. Please don’t hold that against me, and don’t be mad at Lexi. She just wanted what we all did—for you two to find true love.

I adore you. I’m so happy you’re a part of the family.

Billie

P.S. I don’t know who submitted and posted the blind items to the gossip site. That wasn’t me.

P.P.S. Weston, you owe me one giant favor.

After I seal the package, I call my assistant, Hannah. She enters wearing a gorgeous vintage miniskirt and fuzzy sweater.

“Please address it to Carlee Calloway,” I reply with a faint smile. “Have itdelivered ASAP.”

“Will do,” she says, her heels clicking against the polished floor as she leaves.

I pick up my coffee mug and take a sip, feeling warmth spread through me for what I orchestrated. They’re together and happy—proof that love conquers all.

After chatting about Carlee with Weston, I sensed that something deeper was simmering between them. It was evident how much they cared for one another, even in secret.

Discovering Carlee was behind LuxLeaks was a surprise I’d never anticipated, but it didn’t compare to the revelation that they’d hooked up Lexi and Easton.So sly.It was as if fate had twisted their paths together so they could find love for themselves and others. It’s serendipity.

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