She felt her heart bursting and she hugged him tightly. "I love you Ed!" she whispered against his chest. He kissed the top of her head.

When they pulled back Grace wiped Zoe's lipstick from his lips. "No kissy stuff for a week!" she scolded him gently and he smiled. They walked inside and once more conversation died. Five pairs of wide eyes looked back at him.

"How are you feeling Ed?" Rachel asked gently.

"Tired. I think I'm going to go to sleep now. Thank you very much for the lovely barbeque! Good night!"

A chorus of good nights sounded and he made his way upstairs.

-=-

Grace turned...