Page 44 of Resolution
I can’t help but laugh and shake my head. “I’m sure we’ll manage.”
“Okay, but don’t say I didn’t warn you,” he taunts as he kisses my cheek once more.
“Save it for your honeymoon, Harps,” Gunderson hollers and the crowd laughs.
Without a moment’s hesitation, Enzo replies, “You’re just jealous. This fabulous life will happen to you someday, if you let it.” He pecks me on the cheek once again, then steps away.
“Pops, has hell frozen over?” Zane chimes in.
Lorenzo chortles, “Just might have, Zane.”
Enzo flips Zane the bird, everyone bursts into laughter. Once we’ve settled down, we finish taking our family photos.
By the time we get to Multnomah Falls, there’s still time for people to hike and enjoy the scenery as those who are in the ceremony go to our rehearsal. Laughter comes easy with this group and I almost feel bad for Melanie who has worked so hard to pull this together. We get through the necessary obligations of the rehearsal. The guys Enzo’s worked with over the years are a riot to be around. I can’t remember when I’ve laughed so hard.
The night goes by like a blur. By the time we get to toasts at dinner, my cheeks hurt from laughing so hard. My emotions are in full swing and I can only hope people keep their speeches mild.
Lexi’s the first to get everyone’s attention by clinking her knife against her champagne glass. “We can’t let the night go by without toasting the happy couple.” Cheers erupt around the room. “I’d like to begin by saying it’s an honor to be here.”
Lexi looks to me and whispers, “Thank you,” before turning her attention back to the crowd. “Let me start by saying I’m so thankful that Enzo swept into Sam’s life and knocked her off her feet.”
“Hey, now,” I warn, but it’s easily dismissed.
Lexi grin’s infectious, even though I’m leery of what she’s about to say. “I’d always known it would take someone special to make her consider dating again. Let’s face it… I mean, we all know Sam’s far too stubborn to have thought about dating seriously.”
More laughter erupts and I feel my face flush crimson. How can she do this to me? It’s not like I never dated.
“The day she came into work starry-eyed and zoning out was the day I knew something changed. When she told me she’d met a pilot, who lived on the other side of the world, I’ll admit I had my doubts.” She smirks at Enzo before continuing, “But since this was the first guy she’d even considered going out on a second date with, I encouraged her to let down her guard and have some fun.”
“I knew I’ve always liked you,” Enzo interrupts.
“Well… Thanks. I like you, too, Enzo,” Lexi chides. “But seriously, you brought out a part of my best friend I’ve never seen before. Your actions spoke louder than your words and it’s evident to all in this room, that your love for her is real. I wish you both the best and can’t wait to share this journey with you.” She raises her glass to the crowd. “To the bride and groom.”
“To the bride and groom,” the room echoes.
The arm Enzo’s wrapped around my shoulders pulls me closer to him. He kisses me on my temple, sending shivers down my spine. God, I love this man.
As soon as Lexi finishes, Zane stands beside her. As the only members of our wedding party, they have the crowd’s full attention. Before he begins, he looks over to Enzo and me. He shakes his head as his body rocks with silent laughter. “God, where should I start?” Laughter from the crowd continues. “Zo, I never thought I’d see the day you’d settle down. Before seeing you with Sam, I would’ve bet my next paycheck, you’d be a bachelor the rest of your life.”
Jeers from his friends and family fill the room, but when they settle, Zane pins his eyes on me. “Sam, thank you for making him see the light. I’m sure you’ll have your work cut out for you, but it’ll be worth it. Enzo’s a force to be reckoned with.”
Boldly I state, “I’m sure I can handle it.” The room fills with hoots and hollers.
“Ohmigod,” Lexi bellows. “See, she’s a changed woman.”
Zane clears his throat. “But seriously… Samantha.” Zane looks me directly in the eye, then looks to each of my children. “Maddie, Declan, and Frankie. It’s an honor to have you as a part of our family. Enzo never stops talking about you and I can’t wait to get to know all of you better.” The fact he’s included my kids in his toast brings tears of joy to my eyes. He continues, “I wish you all the best. Let’s hear it for the bride and groom.”
I get up to hug Zane. As he pulls me close, he whispers, “Love you, Sam. Thank you for loving my brother so much. He means the world to me.”Gahh, now I’m full-on crying. Damn hormones.
When he releases me, Enzo stands and looks me over with care. I shake my head to assure him I’m fine. Zane reaches out and pulls him into a bear hug. “Love you the most, Zo.”
“Hey, now!” Erin shouts as she comes to join them. “I’m your favorite sibling.” They each reach for her and pull her into a group hug. When they release her, she announces to the room, “I have a few words I’d like to say…”
“This ought to be good.” Enzo chuckles as Zane adds, “You’re in trouble,” simultaneously.
Enzo chuckles as Erin takes the attention from the room. “As the baby of the family, I’ve always looked up to my big brothers.” She eyes them both before continuing, “Enzo has spent the last twenty years flying all over the world, but has always made a point to make family a priority. I love the fact that rather than a video chat, you’ll be just down the street. What’s even better is that I get a new sister out of the deal… No offense, Ann. I love you just as much.” Ann nods her head in approval and Erin continues, “I knew you were special the day Enzo brought you home, Sam. Hell, he hadn’t brought a girl home in twenty years. We all knew something was up.”
“Seriously?” Maddie says in wonder and the room erupts with joyful noise again.
