Chapter 22

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When we pulled away from our kiss we walked out of the church. The reception was being held at Joe's parents' house since it was huge. We arrived and walked out as the DJ announced us. Our dance was up first.

"What song did you choose?" I asked Joe. I had left the song choice up to him because I had a hard time choosing. We had it narrowed down to three songs that would fit.

The song started and I smiled. It was the song we listened to in the car on the way to our date when he gave me the promise ring. 'Feels So Right by Alabama'.

"I was hoping it would be this one." I said.

"It didn't take much thinking." he said.

I laid my head on his chest while we danced. I felt a few tears form in my eyes and I smiled along with them. This really was the happiest day of my life. In this moment, there was nobody but us and this moment was amazing.

"What's going on in that pretty head of yours?" he asked.

"I'm just thinking about us. I'm so in love with this moment and with you. Nothing could ruin this right now." I said.

"Yeah. I love you pretty girl. You're always gonna safe here with me."

"I love you too."

When the song was over we sat down for a little while talking with our friends. I heard a song come on that I loved dearly and then my uncle John was in front of me holding out his hand. I took it and we walked to the dance floor. Uncle John held me close and we swayed to the music while he sang it through a microphone. I had tears in my eyes and just listened to him while I watched him sing to me. It was a special moment and I know people got pictures of it. Uncle John even pointed at Joe a few times during the song and I would look over at him smiling at us. This really was the happiest day of my life.

After the song was done I hugged uncle John and cried in his arms for a few minutes before he wiped my tears away and took me back over to Joe. When I sat down, Joe rubbed my back. "Are you okay?" he asked.

"Yeah. I'm perfect." I said.

We spent most of the time talking and eating. A song by Tim McGraw came on. 'My Best Friend' it was. Jon came and pulled me to the dance floor. I danced with him close.

"You make a really beautiful bride in case I didn't tell you today." he said.

"Thanks Jon." I said. "Listen, I want to thank you for everything. You have been an amazing friend over the past few years and I can't think of anyone else I would rather have as a best friend. I love you Jon."

"Thanks. You too." he said. "So what's next?"

"I'm not sure. Kids maybe." I said.

"You want kids?"

"Yeah. I mean, Joelle is kind of mine but I'd like to have some with Joe."

"Have you told him that?"

"Not yet. I will though. Probably when we leave for our honeymoon." I said.

"Where's he taking you anyway?" he asked.

"I'm not sure. He wouldn't tell me."

"Well, I'm sure it's really nice. Joe is the romantic type."

"Yeah, he is." I said. "What about you though? What's going on with you and Paige?"

"I'm not sure. We like each other but I don't know if I can trust another girl with my heart."

"You trusted me." I said.

"You're different. You're my best friend. With her, I don't know. I really like her." he said.

"Jon, you can't keep hiding your heart. One day you're gonna have to let someone in. Paige is a sweet girl. You should go for it. If it doesn't work out then it doesn't but you'll never know unless you try." I said.

"Yeah. I guess."

"Jon, listen to me. I know what you're going through. I know what it feels like to never wanna take that step but trust me. It's so worth it. I promise you that."

When the song ended we hugged and then we enjoyed the rest of the night. My dad walked up to me and held out his hand. "Can I talk to you and Joe for a second?" he asked.

I looked at Joe and he nodded. "Yeah. Of course."

We got up and walked into the house. Joe and I leaned on the counter while my dad stood right in front of us.

"What's going on dad?" I asked.

"I just wanted to say congratulations to you both and say I'm sorry for everything I've done to make you both hate me. I know I was pretty horrible in the beginning and I'm very sorry for that. I also wanted to tell you," he pointed to me, "that you make one beautiful bride. You are an amazing daughter and you have turned into an amazing woman. I love you."

I was touched. "I don't know what to say. I love you too." I said.

I walked up and hugged him. When I pulled away, I stood back by Joe. My dad shook Joe's hand. "You have a good woman in my daughter. Treat her right."

"I will." Joe said.

***

Most of the guests started leaving and that meant that it was time for Joe and I to leave. I had grabbed my bags that were all packed and Joe's while he was saying goodbye to everyone downstairs.

I walked downstairs and Joe immediately grabbed all of the bags and gave me a kiss. "You ready to go Mrs. Anoa'i?"

"As ready as I'll ever be Mr. Anoa'i." I said.

We got in the car and drove off. Joe grabbed my hand and I looked at him. "It was a good day today." he said.

"It was, wasn't it?" I asked.

"This is the start of the rest of our lives together."

"Indeed it is babe." I leaned over and kissed him. "I love you baby."

"I love you too sweetheart. Always and forever."

"Always and forever." I smiled.

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