Not long after the song starts, Charlie and Chloe run out to the dance floor and join their parents, making it the most perfect first dance of all time.
Something they’ll remember forever.
Despite the unforeseen challenges, today turned out better than anyone could have ever imagined. No one would say it was anything less than magical.
“Look how happy they all are.” I sigh, glancing around at all my mates.
Jack and Nora stand beside me, and next to them is Declan, Lola, Evelyn, Marco, and, the newest addition to our group—Matthew.
Still so crazy to me that my brother is here with us.
Lola and Marco flank Evelyn closely, hands intertwined with hers, silently giving her any support she might need today.
I only recently learned that this is the first wedding since her own that she’s attended. I can only imagine what she must be going through emotionally—wanting to be happy for her brother and new sister while battling the emotions associated with her husband’s passing.
Luckily, she has all of us to turn to for help if needed.
Which is a good reminder of why we should all be thankful for the couple gliding around the dance floor. If they hadn’t fallen in love, our group wouldn’t be as close as it is, and our family wouldn’t have formed. We’d have missed out on the genuine, lifelong friendships that have shaped us all in the best possible way.
Jack squeezes my hand in acknowledgment. “They truly are happy, aren’t they? I wasn’t expecting to feel this content today, but you were right. This is how it’s meant to be. Wills, without a doubt, will always take care of his girls.”
“He will.” I rub his arm. “It’s still okay that you were feeling unsure about it all, although I’m glad you’re coming to terms with it.”
“All right, song’s over, let’s get drunk!” Nora yells, interrupting us and causing Declan to close his eyes and rub his temples in frustration. “What?” She throws her hand on her hip with her usual fiery attitude.
“Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. What do you think? You barely drink, and you want to get drunk? Don’t be an eejit. I’d rather not have to clean up puke tonight after my mate’s wedding. That’s what.”
She points to Declan with determination. “Aye, challenge accepted. This is the first night I don’t have little humans hanging off my nipples, milking me like a cow. So either you’re in it to win it, or get lost, and I’ll go have a drink with those very handsome fellas by the bar.”
I choke out a laugh. “That’s my brother Theo, and Nate, one of Jack’s best friends.”
She rolls her eyes. “Of course they are. Why couldn’t I pick someone more threatening?” She holds out her hand. “You with me, Hughes? Let’s go find some hot rugby players.”
I smirk at her enthusiasm. “Yeah, Irish, let’s do it.”
Jack growls beside me, so I say, low enough for only him to hear, “It’s all in good fun, lover boy.” Then I wink and stalk off with Nora.
* * *
So… Nora wasn’t kidding. She is on a bloody mission.
Between the tequila shots and martinis, even I’m done… and that’s saying a lot since I’ve built up a tolerance for partying over the years.
Declan put Nora in a time-out, which has led to them fighting in the corner, undoubtedly until one of them wins.
Of course, my money is on Nora.
But I would be lying if I said I wasn’t happy for the reprieve—I think I’m through with the booze for now.
My life in London consists of non-stop events, parties, and drinking. It’s too much, and after spending a more laid-back week here with Jack, it’s made me think I need to take a step back and hire someone younger to take over that part of the job.
It’s exhausting.
I look over to Lola, then back to Matty. “She’s a lightweight, don’t let her have any more,” I tell him. “She’s already swaying.”
“Fuck’s sake, Annabelle.” He crosses his arms. “You’re bloody annoying tonight. I’m a world-renowned surgeon. I’m well-equipped to take care of my girl. Worry about something else.”
His girl… still so weird.
