This year, it’s Jack who makes the first interruption. “At the risk of sounding like a total sap, this was my favorite part of last year’s meal—though the mac and cheese gave it a run for its money—and so I’m hoping to start off this year, if you don’t mind.” He reaches over and takes my hand. “Once again, I’m so thankful for everyone at this table. You’ll never know what it means to me to have a house full of love and laughter during the holidays, and I’m not exaggerating when I say you all have changed my life.” He turns to me and gives me a quick wink. “Mostly this one over here, but you’ve all certainly helped. So thank you.”

We move around the table, everyone giving thanks for friends and family and opportunities and love. Finally, we come to Nick, having purposefully maneuvered around the table, saving him for last.

Nick clears his throat, taking a minute to look at the faces in the room before he speaks. “I don’t think it’s any secret that I have a lot to be thankful for in life. I have loving parents and the best friends a guy could ever ask for. I’ve never wanted for anything, and I am, and always have been, thankful for that.” He turns to Harley, sitting next to him, watching him speak with nothing but pure love in her eyes. “But even with everything I’ve had, I never knew what I was missing until you came along, Harley. I’m so thankful for you. Your love and support, your kindness and compassion. You’re the most incredible woman I’ve ever met, and we’re sitting in a room with some pretty incredible women.”

“Hear hear!” Gemma calls, sending a ripple of laughter through the room.

Nick pushes his chair back, rising from his seat before falling to one knee. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small black box, and the room takes in a collective gasp. Harley’s hands fly up to cover her mouth, and I know by the look in her eyes that she’s truly surprised.

Jack squeezes my hand and we share a quick glance. We both knew this was coming, and yet, there’s a sheen of tears in both pairs of our eyes.

Nick opens the box and the ring catches the light, sparkling even from across the room. “Harley, I love you more than anything, and I want to spend the rest of my life making you as happy as you’ve made me. Will you marry me?”

The room explodes before she’s even fully accepted, everyone pushing out of their chairs and rushing in for hugs. Gemma and Taylor pop two bottles of champagne and everyone toasts.