Page 137 of Fireworks

Epilogue

Two Years Later

*****

Katie

“Thank you everyone for being here today. If you would have asked me a few years ago if we would all be gathered in this reception hall, well I would have laughed in your face. I am so proud of my brother for all he has done for me over the years. Even if sometimes he was a major pain and would destroy my books growing up. It was rather annoying…”

Nate pulled the microphone out of my hands.

“I think what my fiancé is trying to say is congrats to the newlyweds. We wish Bridget the best of luck putting up with you day in and day out. Don’t know how you tricked her into saying yes. We love you both and are grateful to call you family. Raise your glasses, to the new Mr. and Mrs. Hanover.”

The clanking of glass was accompanied by shouts of agreement. Gulping down my flute of champagne like it was water, Nate’s arm snaked around my waist. My lips turned to a pout when the liquid didn’t replenish itself immediately. Taking the glass from my hands, he placed it down on the table, chuckling to himself.

“What?”

His head shook back and forth.

“Nothing.”

Pursing my lips, my hip popped to the side and my hand landed on it.

“You got a problem with me, Mr. King?”

“Nope. No problem at all Ms. Hanover.”

My face scrunched.

“Yuck. How much longer before you can’t call me that?”

Tapping his chin, the corners of his mouth turned up into a smirk.

“Not much longer darlin’. God, I can’t wait to call you Mrs. King.”

Our hands interlaced as he brought my knuckles to his mouth.

“I can’t wait until it’s you walking down that aisle in white.”

*****

Nate

Proposing to Katie and having her say yes to our forever was the best day of my life. Convincing her to go up in the hot air balloon with me on her birthday last year was a bit tricky. My original plan was to propose to her up in the air but my nerves got the better of me and I chickened out. It was for the best because as soon as our balloon hit the ground the fireworks started. Dropping to my knee I confessed how much I couldn’t wait to be hers and dared her to make me the happiest guy in the world. The tears of joy that flowed from her as she shook her head yes was the perfect way to end her birthday.

Lost in our moment I almost didn’t hear Bridget walk up behind us.

“You two are sickening with how cute you are. Nice speech though sis.”

Her arms enveloped the two of us.

“I tried to get the mic away before she started rambling too much. Sorry about that B. I don’t know who thought it was a good idea to let her drink before she made a speech.”

We all looked over at Asher, who was talking with one of the bridesmaids.

“I like drunk Katie, she’s fun.”

Bridget’s bachelorette party apparently brought out a side of her that no one knew she had. I reaped the benefits of her wild night, so I had no room to complain. Poking her finger at my chest she teetered on her heels.