Dahlia gasped. “You’re wearing Diana’s ring. Are you? Does this mean? Oh my God.” She burst into tears, rushed over, sat on the coffee table, and joined our hug.

Dylan pulled away and patted her cheeks. “Don’t cry, Grandma, we’re all going to be a family together now.”

“I know, honey. I’m just so happy.” She shifted Dylan to her side and grabbed Lily’s hand, examining the ring on her finger. “Diana used to call this her ice rink. We used to laugh at how huge and ostentatious this ring was, but it’s never looked more beautiful than right now. She would be so happy for you both, and I’m overjoyed, and I am planning your wedding. Oh, and I’m throwing the engagement party too. Don’t argue. I’ll go call Ben.” She got up and rushed down the hall to her room.

“How long do you think it will be before everyone knows?” Lily laughed.

I shrugged, I had what I needed. The rest was just details as far as I was concerned.

Footsteps bounded up the stairs. “Lily, Luke, oh my God!” Rose shrieked when she reached us.

“I know!” Lily cried as they hugged.“I’ve got to get to Violet’s, it’s my last day. Let’s all have dinner and celebrate tonight.”

25

Lily

I walked into Violet’s to the sound of a lot of hooting and hollering, cheering, assorted whoops and one “You go, girl,” which none of us were cool enough to pull off. I looked around the shop, my mother had beat me here, along with Rose. Violet was behind the counter, Finn and Nick rushed over to me, bearing my favorite vanilla iced coffee and a cupcake, bless them. Gram sat on the big couch in the corner, waving excitedly. And at the tables, interspersed with a few of Violet’s customers, were many of my cousins and all my brothers except for Cade, who was on duty with my father and Trev. Everyone was smiling at me, and for once, I didn’t mind being the center of attention. Auntie Delphine rushed over and gave me a big hug and an “I’m so happy for you.”