Page 55 of Hot Cops

Justin leaned forward, squinting at the TV. “Does Aaron have a black eye?”

Sean nodded, loving his role as announcer. He’d always admired his sister’s skill for storytelling and it was fun to assume that role in her absence. He had the entire family eating out of his hand, anxious for all the gory details. “Yep, that’s a black eye the groom is sporting. He had a run-in with the back of Jo’s head during a food fight at the all-you-can-eat.”

Natalie looked at Ewan. “You know, I’ve been to Vegas at least a dozen times and never had any of that shit happen to me.”

Ewan shrugged and grinned. “Just another day in my sister’s life.”

Aaron and Riley said their vows. From the corner of his eye, Sean saw Pop try to discreetly wipe away a tear. When Aaron kissed the bride, Elvis, the minister, started crooningTeddy Bearand everyone in the bar applauded. Even with the unusual cast of characters, Sean couldn’t help thinking that his sister’s wedding had been perfect.

“Is it safe to come in?” Riley asked from the doorway.

Pop led the parade of hugs as the family congratulated Aaron and Riley and they, in turn, introduced Bubbles. The evening passed quickly as they ate and drank and danced until the wee hours of morning. Sky sang a montage of Wayne Newton songs in honor of the newlyweds and Riley kept everyone entertained with stories of her Vegas adventure. Trevor and Johanna showed up shortly after they cut the cake and joined the dancing.

The highlight of the party was when Sean carried out the groom’s cake Riley had specifically told him to order. Everyone laughed at the cake, which was shaped like two enormous boobs. They all cheered when Aaron bent down to suck the cherry nipple off the top of one.

As the evening began to wear down, Sean sat with his back against the bar, watching as the couples slow-danced. His best friend Chad sat down next to him on one of the barstools. “Another awesome Collins event. Hard to believe the wild-child sister is married.”

Sean nodded. “I know. But I have to admit, Aaron is the perfect husband for her.”

“He must love the hell out of her to sign on for a lifetime of Riley’s quirkiness.”

He laughed. “They’re gonna be great together,” he said as he watched Aaron holding Riley close on the dance floor. It was clear they only had eyes for each other and Sean wasn’t sure he’d ever seen his sister look happier.

“You know, this may go down in history as Riley’s greatest Saturday Night Special ever.

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