We reach the end of the aisle, and Frost pulls me close, kissing my temple. “How do you feel, Mrs. Stone?”
Mrs. Stone… I'm Mrs. Stone now. “Perfect.”
The reception starts immediately, and I'm overwhelmed all over again. Tables are set up with white linens and centerpieces made of roses, lilies, and candles. String lights crisscross the ceiling, casting a warm glow over everything. The bar is fully stocked, and a long table pushed against the wall is coveredwith food. There's a buffet with carved roast beef, chicken, pasta, salads, and rolls.
Music plays, classic rock mixed with some country, and the dance floor is already filling up with people.
I glance around. “This is absolutely insane. I can’t believe they pulled this off.”
Frost wraps his arms around me. “This is what family does. We show up when any of us are in need and get shit done.”
I nod my agreement because every single person here showed up for us. They all worked their asses off to make this happen. They were able to turn a disaster into something beautiful. I'm so grateful I could cry all over again.
We make our way over to the food and begin to fill our plates with everyone else.
“Alright, alright!” Chaos's voice cuts through the noise as he grabs a microphone. “Time for speeches, people. Sit your asses down.”
Everyone laughs and hurries to find seats at the tables.
Frost and I sit at the head table with my parents, Amy, Hawk, and a spot for Chaos. I reach for my husband’s hand under the table. He laces his fingers through mine, and his thumb brushes over my knuckles.
“First up,” Chaos says, grinning. “We got Paige, Frost's baby sister.” He hands over the microphone. “Try not to make him cry.”
Paige rolls her eyes as she takes the mic. “Thanks, Chaos,” she says dryly. Then she turns to us, her expression softening. “My brother's married.” A few people chuckle. “I'm not gonna lie,” Paige continues. “I didn't think this day would ever come. Frost has always been... well, Frost. Closed off…Guarded and a huge pain in my ass.”
Frost snorts beside me.
“Until he met Hope.” Paige's voice cracks a little, and she clears her throat. “And everything changed. He smiled more, laughed more. Frost let someone in when none of us could reach him, and that someone is the best thing that's ever happened to him.”
I blink back tears.
“Hope, you're not just my sister-in-law now. You're the sister I always wanted.” She pauses. “Deacon, if you screw this up, I will personally kick your ass. Do. Not. Test me.”
Everyone laughs, and Frost shakes his head, grinning.
“I love you both,” Paige finishes, her voice thick with emotion. “Congratulations.”
She hands the mic to Hawk, who clears his throat, shifting his weight.
“You're a good man, son. Everything a father wants in a son. Hope, you're perfect for him and everything this old man hoped for in a daughter-in-law. You’re loyal, loving, and see past all our roughness. Welcome to the family.”
He hands the mic over to Eagle, who stands with the kind of calm authority that makes everyone shut up and listen.
“Love,” Eagle says, his deep voice steady. “Is a choice. Every single day, you choose each other. You choose to communicate. To forgive, to fight for what you have.” He looks at us, his expression warm. “You two have already proven you can do that, and that's what's gonna make this marriage last. Congratulations, Frost. Hope. You've got something special. Something we all strive for someday.”
I'm full-on crying now, and Frost hands me a napkin.
Chaos takes the mic back, grinning like the devil. “My turn. Best man speech, baby.”
“Oh, God,” Frost groans.
“Frost and I have been brothers since we were born, not by blood but brothers just the same,” Chaos starts. “And let metell you, this man has done some dumb shit.” Everyone laughs. “But the dumbest thing… He almost let Hope go.” Chaos's grin fades, and he looks at Frost seriously. “You fucked up, brother, big time, but you fixed it. You fought for her, and that's what matters.”
Choas’ gaze lands on me. “Hope, you're a saint for putting up with him. I'm glad you do because he's a better man with you.” He raises his beer. “To Frost and Hope. May your love be as strong as Frost's coffee and as sweet as Hope's smile.”
Everyone cheers, and I laugh through my tears.
Amy stands next and grabs the mic with a fierce look on her face. “Listen up. Hope is my best friend… My sister, and if anyone, and I mean anyone, hurts her, I will end you. I always have Lil’ John and Big Lil’ ready. You talk about your MC family, and I love what it represents, but no one can rival a sister’s love.” She looks directly at Frost, who raises his hands in surrender. “However,” Amy continues, her voice softening. “I've never seen her happier than she is with you, Frost. So... thank you for loving her the way she deserves.” She turns to me, her eyes shiny with unshed tears. “I'm so happy for you, babe. You deserve all of this.”
