Jack's eyes are still so, so wide but something in his shoulders has relaxed just a bit and I feel my chest swell with some mix of pride and smugness when he calls me his boyfriend right in front of them. In all the time we've been together, Jack hasn't really shied away what our relationship means and I know he's pretty comfortable with his sexuality now even if it's not always easy to say it out loud (because goodness knows I can understand that) but it still means a whole lot to hear it. Something about it just never gets old.

Whatever lightness I'm feeling is quickly dashed by the look both girls are giving me then, like they're somewhere between disgusted and disbelieving.

"You?" the shorter one asks. "You're not serious."

"Oh, sweetheart, you have no idea," I reply before I can stop myself, sliding close enough to Jack to sling an arm around his middle then. And yes, it's a bit possessive, but honestly! I put on my brightest smile then, my voice just downright syrupy. "In fact, he's treating me to a little romantic getaway this week. Isn't that just the sweetest thing you've ever heard?"