Chapter 19

Juliette snapped her fingers in front of Eloise's face. "Earth to Eloise! What's got you so lost in thought?" Eloise blinked, her hand catching Juliette's with a gentle squeeze. "It's just… It doesn't feel real yet." She still felt unreal. Leaving Northvale had felt like a part of her died. Juliette knew what she was thinking and squeezed her hand back. "Eloise, you're one of the good ones. You deserve every bit of happiness coming your way." Tears slipped from Eloise's eyes, and the women fell into each other's arms, drawing warmth from the embrace. When Eloise's emotions finally settled, Juliette handed her a small, delicate cupcake—her absolute favorite. Eloise's tears gave way to a smile, but before she could thank her, Juliette cut her off. "Don't get all mushy on me. I'm not the hero here. Your husband stood in line forever to get that." At the mention of husband, a flush crept up Eloise's cheeks. After that night, Gabriel had been relentless, half-teasing, half-serious,