Page 65 of One Hot Deal

"Avery and Hugh won't mind at all."

Pippa runs over to hug both me and Derek at the same time."This is the best thing that's ever happened in the history of the world."

I laugh."That might be a slight exaggeration.But you should go grab my mobile so we can call Avery to let her know.She'll want to help organize the big do."

Pippa races into the house.

And I wrap my arms around Derek's neck, tickling his nape with my fingertips."On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you today?"

"One million.How about you?"

"At least a billion."

He bumps his nose into mine."Well, that's appropriate for a billionaire like you.Can I up my estimate to two billion?"

"Let's call it an even ten billion for both of us."

"It's a deal."

Precisely three weeks later, our little family arrives at Sommerleigh for the big do.But "big" hardly describes what Avery and the American Wives Club have created for us.They've turned the garden and lawn into a magical fairyland, with sparkling white lights and flower garlands draped over every bush, table, and chair, not to mention the house itself.Inside the manor, even more garlands decorate the staircase and every room in the house.

Yes, those women have gone overboard.But I don't care.It's the loveliest thing anyone has ever done for me, and I know Pippa and Derek feel the same way.

I glance down at my engagement ring, and a wonderfully warm glow blossoms in my chest.For too long, I'd let my past taint my present and my future.All it took was for one stubborn, sexy, incredible man to shatter all the walls I'd built around myself.Avery and Hugh also played a vital role in my transformation from uptight workaholic to a happy, settled woman with a family and more mates than I could ever hope to have found.

Avery rushes up to me and drags me into a boisterous hug."Oh, Diana, isn't it wonderful?We're both having babies, and we'll be sisters soon."

Tears sting my eyes, but they're a sign of happiness, and I am not ashamed to show my feelings anymore."Yes, darling, it is wonderful.But you are already my sister—in my heart, if not officially yet."

Avery releases me and holds up my hand to study my ring."Derek knows how to pick jewelry.It's the perfect size and style for you."

Yes, that man always knows precisely what I need and want.

I lay my arm across Avery's shoulders and lead her toward the garden."Now, dear, you need to explain to me what the American Wives Club, British Branch, actually is."

"Well, you're British, like Alex.So we created a special offshoot of the Club for people like you guys.Derek will become an honorary member.I'll explain it more later."

I stop us beside a rhododendron that now wears garlands of various types."I know I didn't appreciate it at the time, but I'm glad you meddled in my life.You are an angel, Avery.If I hadn't met you, I might never have found Derek and realized I want more out of life than work."

"Hugh thought you might never forgive us for interfering.But even my hubby is getting in the meddling spirit these days."

"Do you lot have your sights set on another bloke or lady who needs help?"

"What do you think?"Avery wags her eyebrows, then whispers, "Would you like to help us out with our next project?"

"Perhaps I will.Who is your next project?"

She glances around as if she's making sure no one will overhear us."Dominic Rigby and Chelsea Vance."

"Oh, yes, dear.Count me in."