“I’m only going to have you and Cam and Simone. We’re going to do it in Molly and Linc’s yard under a tent.”

“Sounds perfect,” Emma said with a sigh, thrilled for her sister and Colton, a man Emma loved and respected. “Have you told Dad?”

“He’s my next call.”

“He’s got Simone, so you can tell them both at the same time.”

“Are you home alone for New Year’s Eve?”

Emma glanced at Grayson. “Umm, not exactly.”

Lucy shrieked. “Emma! Is he there?”

Emma held the phone away from her ear. “Maybe…” She glanced at Grayson, who was smiling because Lucy was so loud, he could hear her, too.

“Oh my God! When did this happen?”

“Yesterday.”

“He went home with you guys?”

“Maybe.”

“Emma! Stop being a one-word sally, and tell me what’s going on.”

“You already know. He came home with us, and we’re hanging out for a while.”

“What’s the plan?”

Emma glanced at Grayson again. “We don’t have one.”

Lucy’s voice was much quieter when she said, “Are you okay, Em?”

“I’m trying to be.”

“Remember my mantra. If it’s meant to be, you’ll find a way.”

Emma desperately wanted to believe that was true, but all she could see were the many obstacles standing between them and finding a way. “I know. I’m really happy for you and Colton, Luce.”

“Thanks. I’m happy for us, too. Hey, did Linc call you?”

“Yes, he did.”

“What was that about?”

“Just something Simone forgot at the house. They’re mailing it to us.” If she told Lucy about the job offer, she’d get her hopes up about Emma and Simone moving to Vermont, when that couldn’t happen. And then Lucy would feel bad that she’d gotten to move when Emma couldn’t. What was the point of even talking about it? “What’re you guys doing tonight?”

“Going to Hunter and Megan’s for a New Year’s Eve party. What about you?”

“Staying in and watching the ball drop on TV. Talk to you tomorrow?”

“Sounds good. Love you.”

“Love you, too.” Emma ended the call and put the phone on the coffee table.

“Big news from Vermont?”

“In case you or the people next door couldn’t hear her, they’ve set a wedding date. Second weekend in May, and I’m the maid of honor.”

“Good for them. They’re a great couple.”

“Yes, they are, and this is what she wants. I love seeing her get what she wants.”

Grayson sat next to her and put his arm around her.

Emma curled up to him.

“Are you going to tell me what had you upset before Lucy called?”