“As I was saying…” He winks dramatically, also just like Zach. “…I’m not typically a betting man, but when I do, it’s on things I know are a sure thing. And I, for one, know that you two and the bond you share are a sure thing. Now that your wedding day is finally here, I’m not sad that I’m losing a daughter because let’s face it, you will forever be a daddy’s girl, but I’m filled with joy that I am gaining a son-in-law. Kyler, she’s all yours.
“Now, I know that I said I would keep this brief, but I do have one last thing to say, but I enlisted some help from a new friend.”
Adam looks in the direction of our table again as Dani and I share a confused glance. The chair across from us screeches as Aria stands.
“I wanted to do something special, a gift as you might say for Dani and Kyler, so I reached out to their friend Aria, who I’m told is very musically talented just like my daughter, and asked for her help.” Aria walks to the front and takes the stool that the DJ has pulled out from the corner for her.
“Kyler, today, I gave you my most precious gift. Take care of each other.”
I kiss the top of my wife’s head and nod at my father-in-law. I plan to take care of her every day for the rest of our lives.
“And now I would like to turn over the microphone to Aria.” He hands the microphone off to her, and she looks almost nervous.
“Hey, everyone. I’m Aria, and I am a friend of both the bride and groom. I am honored to be here to celebrate this day with two very special people. Now, I hope you don’t mind, but I needed a little help of my own with this. If everyone could please give a warm welcome to my brother, Declan.”
The crowd begins to clap, and none other than Declan Matthews appears. That little shit of a wedding crasher. What is he even doing here? I thought that he had said he couldn’t attend. He shyly waves as he joins his twin sister. Adam and Brian wheel out a piano from the storage closet of the hall and Declan takes a seat.
Adam and Brian join their wives at the table beside ours. Aria looks back to her brother, and she smiles as he begins to play a tune I recognize: “Sweet Child of Mine.” Hearing Aria’s voice reminds me of the weekend she and Hunte
r joined us at the Jacobses, and we all sat out by the pool and Hunter played his guitar while Aria and Dani sang their version of a-Ha’s “Take on Me.” It was so surreal, peaceful, and calm.
Dani leans into my body as our friends sing and play a song for us. When they are done, they receive a standing ovation. I don’t blame them; I am standing myself. When Aria and Declan make their way over, Dani pulls Aria into a hug, and I shake Declan’s hand before swapping.
“Sorry for wedding crashing. I just couldn’t turn down this request from my sister.”
I slap his back, standing next to him, watching Dani and Aria chat amongst themselves. “It’s no trouble at all. Why don’t you stay? We can add one more, I’m sure.”
“Oh, no, I couldn’t impose. Plus, I have some things I need to take care of.”
“What things?” his sister interrupts.
I watch a strange look exchanged between Declan and Hunter, but don’t push the subject.
“Nothing you need to worry about, little sis.” He turns to Dani and me. “Congrats, guys. Dani, you look beautiful, as always. I’ll see you guys later.”
He kisses the top of Aria’s head and is on his way.
“You know, Aria, you looked pretty good holding my daughter earlier as we made our way into the ceremony,” Haylee says with her elbows on the table and her head resting on her hands.
“She’s such a sweetheart. It’s hard not to fall in love.” Aria smiles a genuine smile.
“Do you and Hunter want kids one day?”
“One day.”
I don’t miss the longing in her eyes.
“Hey, speaking of Hunter, have you seen him lately?” Aria responds.
“No.” Haylee shakes her head.
“I haven’t either. In fact, have you seen any of the boys?” I look around the table and see Kyler, Zach, Hunter, and Bennett all missing.
Haylee’s mouth twists to the side. “Well, that can’t be good.”
We all giggle. It’s one thing for Zach and Kyler to be missing, but when you throw in Bennett and Hunter, Lord help us. I have heard plenty of stories about their shenanigans. I start to rise from my seat when my husband comes into view.
Wow, I was just used to saying fiancé, and now I get to say husband. I don’t think I will ever tire saying that.