After the Zealots play multiple sets and endless covers, they plead exhaustion. Someone hooks up their playlists to the speakers, though, to keep the music flowing. Some of the other guests pack it in and head out, but the band, my former teammates, and our significant others spread out across a few tables, catching up.
“The reception is just about over, Hannah. I think you can relax. A special drink for the bride,” she calls, waving to a server.
Hannah’s already shaking her head. “No, I’m actually fine with this…” She holds up her club soda. She glances at Cord, who nods with a smile. “And so is the baby.”
Our group erupts into renewed congratulations, and once again, we all need to hug the couple. When things settle, Declan holds up his glass. “To Hannah and Cord.”
Everyone offers their cheers. After we drink, Cord holds his glass up again. “And to Declan and Ivy. Congratulations on your engagement. Once again, I one-up you. A hockey rink wedding is cooler than a car proposal.” We all laugh and drink again.
“May I Have This Dance?” by Chance the Rapper wafts through the speakers, and Ivy jumps up. She grabs her fiance’s arm, and the two of them hit the dance floor, re-enacting the dance they did for the competition they competed in last year. After that, we all join them.
I fold Cami against my chest, holding her close. “I love you, Cam. I hope you know that.”
“I do.” She smiles up at me, and I bask in the happiness in her eyes. “Does this mean that we need to come up with some ridiculous engagement stunt or have some wild wedding story?” She narrows her gaze. “Because I’m an actress. I can come up with some crazy stuff.”
I laugh. “I’m sure you can. But for now, I’m going to be satisfied just being crazy in love with you for the rest of my life.”
She grins and presses her mouth to mine. We sway together, our lips playing against each other, as we soak up the surrounding joy.