[This time, he laughs. It's going to be something that they talk about for the rest of their time together, however long that is (and though he won't say forever, he'd be happy if it was), and he might as well start being good-natured about it now.]

I've already given my friends all the thanks they need for their part in it.

[As in, just the once, and that was all they needed to hear. That he thanked them at all would have spoken volumes about his appreciation for their involvement.]

Now-- [He pauses to press a soft, warm kiss to her forehead.] --shall we get something to eat?