My head snaps up in surprise. Everyone looks at him expectantly, but his eyes are only on mine, and I know that’s what he needs.
“I know I was the last one to join the group, but over the last two years you’ve all filled my life with warmth and acceptance in a way I didn’t know was possible. You’re all amazing human beings, and I want to thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives. You’ve changed my life. You’ve made me a better man, a better friend. You’ve shown me what I’m capable of.”
He says that last part looking at CJ, but then his gaze returns to me.
“You’ve given me space to be myself, and you’ve taught me how to love. Each one of you is like one of my favorite songs, and nothing makes me happier than knowing I can always count on you. I want you to know, you can always count on me too.”
There’s a long beat of silence, and by the multiple glistening eyes I see around me, I bet they’re as choked up as I am.
“Fuck, that was beautiful,” Wolf whispers, then clears his throat. “And I will just say ditto.”
“Same here,” Luke adds.
“Me too,” Hawk says happily.
“Me five,” Bidi says cheekily.
“And me,” Theo whispers, tears freely streaming down his cheeks, though they could never dim his smile.
“We’ve always had a badass group of friends,” Adam saysand raises his beer. “But you’ve all found amazing people who have brought nothing but joy to our lives. Here’s to us.”
