Total pages in book: 59
Estimated words: 55832 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 279(@200wpm)___ 223(@250wpm)___ 186(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 55832 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 279(@200wpm)___ 223(@250wpm)___ 186(@300wpm)
She fights off a giggle and shakes her head. “You’re terrible,” she whispers.
Hartford makes it to Paxton and his smile says it all. It’s a magical moment.
“You may all be seated,” Elvis instructs. “We are gathered here today to join together Paxton Atwood and Hartford Jamison in holy a hunk a hunk a matrimony.”
I burst out laughing, along with a few other people.
“Sorry,” I say when Paxton looks at me.
“Brock,” Willow scolds.
“Seriously? You didn’t find that funny?”
“Shh,” she whispers.
“The bride and groom have decided to write their own vows,” Elvis says.
Hartford smiles, taking a deep breath as she begins, "I remember the first time we met. You were the boy who shared his pink crayon with me on that first day of kindergarten. We were just kids, but from that moment, you became my best friend, my confidant, and my partner in crime. We've laughed together, cried together, and created a lifetime of memories long before today. You've seen me at my best and at my worst, and through it all, you've loved me unconditionally. Today, I promise to love you just as fiercely. I vow to be your rock, your safe haven, and your biggest cheerleader. I promise to share in your dreams and support you in your endeavors. I will stand by your side through every challenge and celebrate every triumph. You are my best friend, my heart, and now, my husband. I love you more than words can ever express, and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."
Paxton’s eyes glisten with emotion as he takes her hands and says his vows. "From the moment I gave you my crayon, I knew you were someone special. We grew up together, navigated the ups and downs of life, and through it all, you remained my constant, my best friend. You've always been my rock, my source of joy, and my inspiration. I cherish every memory we've made and every moment we've shared. Today, I stand before you, ready to make new memories and share new moments as your husband. I vow to love you with all my heart, to be there for you through thick and thin, to support you in everything you do, and to always make you laugh, even on the toughest days. You are my best friend, my soulmate, and my everything. I love you more than words can say, and I am so grateful to spend forever with you."
As they finish their vows, there isn't a dry eye in the room. The love and deep connection between Paxton and Hartford is palpable, a beautiful testament to their journey from best friends to lifelong partners.
Willow looks at me and I reach over, catching a tear before it races down her cheek. “Even when you cry, you’re beautiful.”
She smiles at me, squeezing my hand. “You too.”
“Now, by the power invested in me by the state of Nevada and the Elvis Impersonators, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”
Paxton nearly attacks Hartford, kissing her with a hunger that I am beginning to know all too well.
“That was beautiful,” Willow says, as we all stand and clap.
“Way to go Pax,” I shout.
“It’s party time,” Tripp says.
It is definitely time to celebrate and I’m doing it with the most gorgeous girl.
Chapter 25
Willow
I can’t believe my friend Hartford is now married. I swipe a few tears as they race down my cheeks, but I don’t even care. That was the best thing ever. Watching her exchange vows with Paxton, seeing the joy and love in their eyes—it was truly magical.
Even better was having Brock at my side through it all. He was my rock, grounding me when the emotions threatened to overwhelm me. Now, I’m standing near the entrance to the reception area, observing as Paxton and Hartford take their wedding pictures. The photographer directs them into various poses, capturing the bliss of their newlywed moment.
I've got a glass of champagne in my hand, the bubbles tickling my nose as I take a sip. The warm, tipsy feeling spreads through me, adding to the euphoria of the day. The reception area is beautifully decorated with twinkling fairy lights, elegant floral arrangements, and a stunning cake that stands as the centerpiece. The air is filled with the soft hum of conversations and laughter, mingling with the strains of classical music playing in the background.
Brock had to take a few pictures with the family, his handsome face lighting up the frame with his easy smile. As I finish off my glass of champagne, I spot Lake walking over, a grin on his face.
“Hey there,” he says, his voice warm and friendly. “Enjoying the festivities?”
“Absolutely,” I reply, my smile wide. “It’s been such an amazing day.”
Lake nods, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You look like you could use a refill,” he says, glancing at my empty glass.