I take in the sight of my handsome friend, dressed in a black tux. “You don’t scrub up too bad yourself.”

He pecks me on the cheek. “Excited?”

“Terrified. But I’m here, and everything seems to be going well. We’ve stopped about five times for Josh to be interviewed, and my ankles will be mega-swollen by the time we get inside. But it’s a wonderful night. Good luck.”

He grins. “It’s crazy to think we’re even nominated. You’re our good-luck charm.”

I laugh, shaking my head. “No way. You guys just needed to get your shit together.”

Reece squeezes my arm. “That’s why I love you. You’re so upfront with me.”

“Always.”

“Reece.”

I turn my head to see my husband heading toward us.

He slips an arm around me. “It’s good to see you, man. Let’s head in.”

My world has become so surreal with the number of actors and actresses who recognise me and say hello.

Our seats are near the front, and I’m so glad when I finally sink down into mine.

“You okay?” Josh asks.

I nod. “Sore feet, but I’ll survive.”

He takes my hand in his. “You know, even if I don’t win this, I still win.”

“How do you work that one out?” I laugh.

“I have you in my life. And I have Amelia. And in a few months, I’ll have this one too.” He places his hand on my bump. “I have the life I never dared to dream of. Thanks to you.”

I shrug. “It’s all your fault. Shouldn’t have answered the door half-naked that first day.”

“Is that what did it?” He leans in for a kiss.

“Uh-huh. I just couldn’t stop myself after that.”

“How about after all this, we go home, shower, and we’ll re-enact that moment?”

I laugh. “I like that idea.”

“I like the thought of showering with you. I’m in charge of the sponge.”

Reece leans over me. “Can you two quit with the foreplay?”

“Jealous?” Josh asks.

“You know damn well I am.” He grins.

I lean against Josh as he kisses my temple.

I love my life.

* * *

It’s the craziest night of my life.

Reece and Gabby both win their awards, and I’m not surprised.

Their movie is beautiful.

It’s the story of a damaged war veteran who comes home and struggles to settle back into regular life while also dealing with his wife’s infidelity with his best friend while he was away. I cry every time I see it.

And then they get to the award for best actor.

Josh squeezes my hand, letting go only to applaud for each nominee.

“And the Oscar for best actor in a drama is …”

I hold my breath.

“Josh Carter.”