ROMAN
“Are you ready to get married?”
Never in a million years did I think I would ever hear that question.
Not from Joseph.
Not from anyone.
I just knew it was my destiny to forever be popping bottles and sleeping with whatever flavor of the month was on the menu. Who knew that when I was tasked to protect the little nerd who moved into my house that over a year later I’d be putting on a suit, getting married, and Joseph would be my best man.
“Yeah, old man, I’ve been ready.”
“Are you still set on wearing those boots with your tuxedo?”
“You know I always dress down my suits.”
“On your wedding day?”
“Elizabeth likes it and that’s all that matters,” I reply as I straighten the tie I’m wearing with my custom-tailored black on black tux.
“Sentiment has made you soft.”
“Maybe, but it’s also made me happy as fuck.”
Joseph nods with acceptance. “Good.”
“Did you see Frances and Peter sitting out there?” I ask.
“Yeah, I saw them.” He sounds unimpressed.
“Did you speak to her?”
“I was cordial, although I don’t think her chubby little boyfriend likes me.”
“Did you apologize to her for your part in keeping us apart all this time?”
“Hell no,” he asserts. “I’d make the same choices all over again.”
I chuckle to myself. I didn’t really think he’d ever apologize. Sorry isn’t really a part of Joseph’s vocabulary.
“Knowing that Juliette would be furious with you?”
He grins like he knows some sort of secret. “Even then.”
Then he adds, “Your mother seems like she’s finally in a good place though, so I’m happy for her.”
“She looks clean but I think I’m going to wait before we talk about exchanging Christmas gifts and shit.”
“Understood. So, I suppose we need to have a talk before you walk down the aisle?”
“Don’t you think we’re a little past the whole birds and bees conversation?” I say mockingly as I check to make sure I don’t have any traces of candy in my teeth. “I think the fact that your grandson is the ring bearer should be a sign that I’ve aced that lesson.”
Joseph starts his monologue anyway. The older he gets, the more he likes to talk.
“People tell you that marriage is a partnership.”
“Yep, that’s what I’ve heard.”
