John is still smiling as he gently tugs on Karen's hands to pull her to her feet and he wraps his arms around her, burying his nose in her hair. He feels almost nervous with pleasure, happy to be here with her, happier than he had ever imagined he would feel over getting engaged.

But Karen is different than anyone else he's ever known.

"I love you," he echoes softly, then pulls back a little so he can kiss her. For so long he'd held himself apart from her, not wanting to cause any trouble in a very good friendship and knowing himself well enough to feel it was probably better for her to do so. But this is better by far. This is everything he's wanted.