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Leaning forward, I kissed her cheek, and then my eyes met Charlotte’s.

“You are so beautiful.” I smiled.

After a beautiful ceremony where we both cried, we took off for photos before heading to the Loeb Boathouse for the reception. I pulled Charlotte to a spot where we could be alone, if only for a few moments.

“Hi, Mrs. Cross.” I grinned.

“Hi, Mr. Cross.” A bright smile crossed her lips.

“You have single-handedly made me the happiest man alive. I hope you realize that.”

“I know I have. Just as you have made me the happiest woman alive.”

I placed my thumb on her chin and leaned in for a kiss.

“There’s something I have to tell you, Ashton. I won’t be drinking tonight.”

“Why? Wait a second.” My eyes widened. “Are you—” The grin on her face widened as she nodded.

“Yes. I’m pregnant. I took the test last night because I suspected.”

I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her close, holding her tightly.

“This is amazing, sweetheart. I’m so happy.”

“Me too.” She grinned. “In eight months, we’ll have a screaming baby in the house.”

“And I can’t wait.” I kissed her.

“What are you two doing?” Carlos ran over. “Your guests are waiting for you. Chop, chop, Cross Family.” He clapped his hands.

Charlotte

Mrs. Ashton Cross. What a beautiful name and feeling. When I sat in Central Park a year ago, wallowing in self-pity with my cupcakes, I never imagined I’d meet the man of my dreams. And now, I was pregnant with his baby, and we’d become a family of four. A few months ago, when I thought I was pregnant, I wasn’t ready. But now, nothing gave me more joy than to have Ashton’s baby.

The reception at the Boathouse glowed with candlelight, laughter, and music. I’d just set my glass of water on the table when I heard my name. Turning around, I saw Kitty heading toward me. I braced myself, ready for the usual backhanded compliment or jab about my dress, my hair, and my life choices.

“Charlotte, you look absolutely stunning. I mean it. That gown is perfection.”

“Oh. Thank you, Kitty.”

“And that arch in the park? Gorgeous and elegantly decorated. I was prepared to be unimpressed, but you’ve done this wedding beautifully.”

My jaw hit the floor in shock. She was being cordial, and I didn’t know if she was sincere or had something up her sleeve.

“Thank you.” I smiled, waiting for the catch. But there wasn’t one. The tone of her voice was warm, and for the first time since I’d met her, I didn’t feel like she was calculating ways to take me down.

“I do think you may belong in our world.”

“That means a lot coming from you, Kitty.”

She held up her champagne glass. “Enjoy every moment, Charlotte. Weddings are grand and fleeting, but true love stays forever. Remember that.” She smiled and walked away.

“Did Kitty Corners just compliment you?” Ashton asked, walking up from behind.

“I think she did.”

“See. Weddings bring out the best in people. Maybe you two can become BFF’s.” He smirked.