Gage (THE GOLDEN TEAM #3)

30. Gage

30

Gage

I made my way through the guests, talking to friends and family, making sure everyone had a drink in hand. Laughter and conversation filled the air, the perfect background to what would soon be the best moment of my life.

River walked over, clapping a hand on my shoulder. “She’s ready.”

My heart pounded. Lori was ready to marry me.

I exhaled, steadying myself as I stepped into place beside Pastor Brian. He gave me a firm pat on the back, grinning. “About time you made an honest woman out of her.”

We chuckled, but nothing—not the teasing, not the crowd, not even my own nerves—could have prepared me for what happened next.

Matthew stepped forward first, tossing rose petals down the aisle like he was the star of the show. The guests laughed, and so did I, but then…

Then, I saw her.

I held my breath.

Lori stepped into view, and for a moment, everything else faded away.

She was wearing the most beautiful dress, one that looked like it had been made just for her. Her dark hair cascaded in soft waves, framing her face, and when our eyes met, I knew— I would love this woman until my last breath.

Tears welled in her eyes, and suddenly, my vision blurred too. I swallowed hard, trying to keep it together, but when I reached up, I felt the wetness on my own face.

Damn it.

I never thought I’d cry at my wedding, but there I was, a complete goner for this woman.

Her father walked her toward me, his own emotions evident in the way he held her hand. When he reached me, he placed her hand in mine, giving me a nod before stepping back.

And then I kissed her.

Brian cleared his throat.

I ignored him.

He cleared it again.

Still ignored him.

Finally, after a few moments, he sighed. “You planning to get married, or should I just pronounce you husband and wife now?”

Reluctantly, I pulled back, resting my forehead against Lori’s. “I love you so much. Thank you for marrying me.”

Her eyes shined. “I love you, too.”

River stood beside me as my best man, looking a little smug, while Sammy stood proudly beside Lori, beaming.

The ceremony continued, each word sealing the moment as ours.

By the time Brian said, “I now pronounce you husband and wife,” I didn’t wait for permission—I cupped Lori’s face and kissed her again to the sound of cheers and applause.

This had to be the best and most beautiful wedding ever.

I might be biased.

But I didn’t think so.

Because at the end of the day, I got to marry the love of my life.

And that made everything perfect.