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"Knowing you, I believe that You are so freakin’ sentiood Seriously, Serena I don't know anyone like you And God love ya, I know you believe in the whole happily-ever-after bullshit"

"It's not bullshit,” she insisted “Yeah, sure, this newsituationromancewhateverisn't perfect But I don't think love ever is I do, however, believe that I found so damned close to perfection"

"Wow” Shay was quiet a moment, then said, “I am so happy for you Seriously I can't think of another person who deserves a happy ending more than you, Serena"

Tears suddenly welled in her eyes “I can"

"Oh, yeah, right” She could picture Shay waving her hand in the air in a dis, whisky-colored eyes “I need a happy ending like I need a hole in my head You know me better than that I like , and my affairs sordid and juicy None of which makes for a happily-ever-after"

"Hmm We'll see"

"Well, that's not whaton with you Who is this guy and why a about him?"

"'Caus

e I just now ht that is I—"

"Serena!” Shay's squeal ht stand!"

Pressing her ear to the receiver, she said, “Absolutely not! You knowher attention andher heart skip a beat She was certain it was Garrett on the other end “Look, I've got another call, and I think it's one you're going to want me to take So, let me call you back tomorrow"

"You'd better,” Shay insisted “Or I am so on a plane toto"

"Hickville?"

"Yeah"

Serena laughed “Keep the platinum card in your Gucci wallet I'll phone you tomorroith all the juicy details"