Page 47 of Conflicted (Change 3)

“It’s only going to be a few hours, you dork.” I toss her onto the bed and fall on top of her. She is laughing and it is magic to my ears.

“A few hours? Damn, what could possibly take so long?” She shakes her head and rolls her eyes.

“Hair, makeup, getting dressed times four, plus pictures—” I cut her off with a kiss.

“Alright, I get it.” I stand up and hold out my hand to help her up. “I don’t know why it would take so long, you are gorgeous.” I am so fucking lucky, and I remind myself of it every damn day.

“You are so damn sweet, but, baby, we have professionals doing our hair and makeup.” She gives a little squeal of excitement.

“Oh, professionals, well that makes sense.” She punches my arm, and I laugh.

“It’s a big deal, you’ll see.” Damn right, I will. As much as I’m playing it off, I am just as excited as she is for this wedding. I mean, it’s Campbell and Kenz. It is not only going to be amazing to watch them say their vows and start a whole new chapter of their lives together, but it’s going to be one hell of a party afterward.

I look over at the clock on the nightstand and realize I need to get moving. I hug her close, not wanting to let go. “I hate leaving, but Campbell is going to kick my ass if I’m late.” She laughs, and I let her go. I head out to the living room and she follows. “Are you heading over to Kenz’s now?” She goes into the kitchen, pulls orange juice out of the fridge, and grabs a bottle of champagne off the counter. She holds them up and winks at me.

“I am now.” I shake my head and follow her out the door. She knocks once on Kenz’s door and walks in. I rush in behind her, and she turns to look at me.

“What? It’s not bad luck for me to see the bride.” Kenz is sitting on the couch in a white satin bathrobe and smiles when she sees us. “Good morning, you beautiful bride. How are you?” She gets up and gives me a hug.

“Dick, I honestly can’t remember being so excited and nervous.” I laugh, but I can totally understand.

“Nothing to be nervous about, Kenz. You and Campbell are meant for each other.” She smiles at me and nods her head.

“I know that. I think it’s more the idea of being in front of all the people today that has me nervous. I have no doubts on our love for one another.” Mel hands Kenz a Mimosa.

“This will help.” She sips and kisses Mel.

“You are a goddess. Thank you.” I chuckle and figure I better get the hell out of here.

“I guess the next time I see you beautiful ladies will be at the ceremony.” I kiss Kenz’s cheek. “Relax, it’s your big day.” I then pull Mel to me and kiss her. “Have fun, sweetheart. I’ll see you in a few hours. If you need anything, call me.” Just as I let go, the door swings open.

“We are finally here. Fucking Becca needed to stop and pick up some bullshit wedding day candle because you needed it. Three stores later, we finally find it. I almost pissed myself because this kid is dancing on my bladder. Happy wedding day, Kenz. Hey, Dick, get the fuck out of here, girls only.” I’d love to say mood swing, but nope, that’s just Maddie.

“Hey, Maddie, be nice. Every woman needs to burn this candle. It’s tradition.” Mel and Kenz laugh when Maddie flips her off.

“Fucking tradition. It’s a Goddamn candle, Becca. You and your fucking old-fashioned ways. Hey, when you and Jeff fuck, do you ever do it without him being on top?” And I’m out of here. I get the hell out as fast as possible among laughter and cursing. Seems like the perfect morning.

I drive to the diner, thinking along the way this is the last time we will all hang out before life is completely different. Campbell and Kenz are getting married, Young and Maddie are having a baby, and Becca, well, I’m sure she will be engaged soon. Jeff has been making little comments about marriage, so I have a feeling it’s coming.

I get to the diner pretty quickly and I’m glad because when I walk in, Young and Campbell are already here. It’s just the three of us this morning. Campbell told everyone else to meet at Young’s apartment later. I’m glad it’s just us. “Well, look who finally decided to join us. I’m sorry, did you need to deal with an emotionally high pregnant woman too this morning?” I laugh and sit down. “No, you didn’t ,so what the fuck is your excuse for being late. I’m fucking starving.” I just ignore him and look over at Campbell.

“Hey, man. Sorry I’m a little late.” I look over at Young who is still bitching and turn back to Campbell. “I wanted to see Kenz before I left.” He gets that smile on his face that he always does when Kenz is mentioned and drops his menu.

“How was she? Did she seem nervous?” A part of me can’t wait until I’m the one asking about my bride to be, but we have time for that, I suppose.

“She was great. She is very excited and happy to have all the girls over there with her. Mel brought shit to make Mimosas, so they were very happy when I left.” Young slams down his menu and looks at me.

“Are you fucking kidding me? Maddie is going to be jealous, you dumb fuck. She can’t drink, you know.” I roll my eyes.

“No shit. She seemed fine with it, asshole, so relax.” The waitress comes over and takes our order, promising to bring coffee right away.

“I can’t believe it’s actually my wedding day. I feel like it’s been a lifetime, yet just yesterday that I met Kenz. Today, she is going to be my wife; it’s fucking unreal.” The waitress drops off our coffee, and we all happily take a sip.

“You’re not kidding. It’ been one hell of a journey, and I’m honored to have been a part of it.”

“Shut the fuck up, you bunch of pussies. You sound like a bunch of chicks. Grow a set of balls already. Yes, it’s fucking awesome you are getting married, Campbell, but do we really need to sit around and talk about our feelings? I mean, shit, maybe we should take up a knitting class.” I can’t help but laugh at this idiot.

“Well, oh masterful one, what do you suggest we talk about then? Seeing as you know best.” He looks at me with a cocky smile, and I regret my question.

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