Maggie turned.
“What?”
He smiled.
“Nothing.”
“Nick.”
“You look incredible.”
She glanced down at the dress.
“Recognize it?”
His smile widened.
“The elevator.”
“The very same.”
He stepped closer.
“I thought it looked familiar.”
“Tessa repaired the zipper.”
“An excellent decision.”
Maggie laughed.
Then looked toward the corridor.
“How many people are here?”
“A great many.”
“Wonderful.”
“Are you nervous?”
“Terrified.”
Nicholas smiled.
“Good.”
She stared.
“Good?”
“It means it matters.”
Maggie looked at him.
Then laughed softly.
“You've become rather wise.”
“Don't tell my father.”
She smiled.
Nicholas offered his hand.
“Come on.”
She hesitated.
“Wait.”
He stopped.
“What?”
Maggie turned her back toward him.
“Would you mind?”
Nicholas stared.
Then began laughing.
“You cannot be serious.”
She looked over her shoulder.
“What?”
“The zipper?”
“I just want to be certain.”
He stepped closer.
“Your friend installed an entirely new one.”
“I know.”
“She said it was indestructible.”
“Yes.”
“And you still want me to check it?”
Maggie smiled.
“Call it a tradition.”
Nicholas laughed.
Then gently touched the top of the zipper.
It was perfectly fastened.
He looked at her.
“Secure.”
“Certain?”
“Absolutely.”
She turned.
“Thank you, Mr. Sterling.”
He smiled.
“My pleasure, Miss Bennett.”
For a moment, they stood close together.
Then Nicholas reached into his jacket.
“Maggie.”
She looked up.
“Yes?”
“There's something I want to give you.”
He withdrew a small velvet box.
Maggie's heart stopped.