“Well, we did, and the third candle was for Toby. Alex suggested it. He never loses sight of the fact that he got his happy ending because someone else died.”

“That’s… That’s a wonderful tribute.”

“His picture is still on the bedside table in the room I share with my husband.” She took a small step closer to Erin. “And you, my dear, darling friend, will always be my sister, no matter how many new sisters I may acquire along the way.”

“I’m a jealous cow,” Erin said, sniffing through her tears. She should’ve known Jenny would tune in to what had set her off.

Jenny laughed. “No, you’re the loyal and wonderful sister of my heart who understands my journey better than just about anyone else ever could.”

“I love Hope. She’s awesome.”

“Yes, she is, and I couldn’t be happier for her and Paul and Ethan. She’s going to be a wonderful addition to my family, but she could never take your place in my family or my heart. You’re right there next to Toby, two of the most important people in my life.”

Erin hugged her, and they clung to each other the way they had during the horrible days, weeks, months and years that followed Toby’s death. “I’m sorry to rain on your first Christmas with Alex. I’ve been a bit of a basket case lately.”

“You’re not raining on anything, and you’re not a basket case. You’re falling in love with a wonderful man, and if I know you at all, you’re fighting it tooth and nail.”

“I’m not falling in love. I’m in lust. That’s all it is.”

“Funny, that’s what I said about Alex, and now here I am with his ring on my finger and knocked up with his kid.”

Erin gasped. “Oh my God! You are? You’re pregnant?”

Smiling at her reaction, Jenny said, “Three months.”

“You didn’t tell me!”

“We haven’t told anyone, but I wanted you to know.”

Erin hugged her again. “This is such amazing news. I’m so happy for you guys.”

“Thanks, we’re thrilled. But don’t think my news gets you off the hook on falling in love. I see the way you look at him and the way he looks at you. I’ve never seen you look at anyone else the way you look at him, not even Mitch.”

“This… He… We…” Erin groaned in frustration while Jenny laughed.

“He’s got you stuttering.”

“Among other things,” Erin muttered.

“Can I give you one teeny, tiny piece of advice?”

“Can I stop you?”