Part 33 [End]

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Lisa and Jennie arrived at the reception a little late, but nobody cared. Georgie just winked at them when they entered the ballroom. Roseanne and her band were busy setting up on the stage. They had agreed to play at the reception, while Sheila was busy introducing Janice to all the people present who were mostly members of either Her's or Daniel's family. 

Mr. Manoban and Mr. Park on the other hand were sitting at a table in a corner obviously deep in conversation. Both weren't fond of gatherings like these and glad to have found someone to talk to.

When Sheila saw the newlyweds enter the room her eyes lit up and she waved them to come over: "Lisa, Jennie, my dearest," she greeted them with a smile. Pulling a handkerchief from her pocket she wiped it over her daughter's cheek: "You've got lipstick there," she said with a grin. Lisa blushed a little but smiled too. "Got distracted on the way," Sheila winked at Jennie, who blushed as well. "Now, now," she took the blonde's hand. "You're newlyweds, that's quite understandable. We were waiting for you," she then said and turned to Janice who was standing next to her.

"Yes," Jennie's mother nodded. "They want to bring champagne and then Hongjun and Daniel have prepared a little speech." When she saw her daughter roll her eyes she laughed: "Only short, I promise, and then there's just dancing." 

"Alright," Jennie sighed looking at Lisa. "Let's get over with." In response Lisa grinned and her mother waved at the waiters to bring the champagne.


When everyone held a glass in their hands Park and Daniel went for the stage and the microphone. "Test, test," Mr. Manoban said and then looked at the assembled crowd. "I'm glad you all came today," he began with a smile. "As the father of the groom I've been told I have to say something. Those of you who know me well will also know that I hate to talk in public, so this will be short I assure you." He cleared his throat, and some laughter was to be heard. "When my daughter was born, we immediately knew that we had received a very special child." More laughter came from the people and Daniel smiled at his child. "Anyway. She has always been a wonderful girl and always lived up to our expectations and hopefully also to her' and the moment Jennie entered our house I knew she brought us a wonderful daughter-in-law too. I hope I won't hurt anyone when I now say that I've never seen a couple so much in love before. All I hope for them is that they will never lose it. That they will stay that happy for the rest of their lives." He raised his hand which held the glass. "To Jennie and Lisa," he said loudly.

"To Jennie and Lisa," the guests repeated and drank.

"And now let me introduce you to Jennie's stepfather, Hongjun Park who has to say some words too." With this he stepped aside, and Park took the microphone.

"I met Jennie two years after her father died. She was twelve by then and missed her dad very much. We both went to bad and good times, but I always loved her dearly. As some of you might know I didn't approve of her relationship with Lisa first, but I soon realised that I was wrong. Their love is so strong, it's almost palpable. So, I just want to say that I wish you all happiness and I love you, Jennie." He raised his glass now too. "To Jennie and Lisa."

"To Jennie and Lisa," the guests repeated again. 


"And now, let's dance and have fun," Daniel said into the microphone. Both men left the stage and came over to the couple.

"Oh, Hongjun," Jennie said between tears and hugged him tightly. "I love you too."

"I know," he replied and held her close. "Be happy, Jennie."

She nodded: "I will, we will. Don't worry."

Glancing over to Lisa who stood talking to her father he smiled: "I will always worry. That's what parents do, but I know you both belong together. If I hadn't realised it before, today would be the proof. You look radiant."

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