Marco's pov
I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share in Nick's happiness. Although my own wedding day was just around the corner, right now, I was content to be by Nick's side.
Watching Nick soak up every moment with his buddies, especially Leonardo, his childhood buddy, brought a smile to my face. It was clear he was cherishing this last hurrah as a single guy.
I was having a blast too. We laughed uproariously as we dived into silly games, toasted to Nick's impending nuptials, and we knocked back drinks like there was no tomorrow.
But amidst the fun, being the big brothers, it was on us to keep a close eye on Pete and Luke to make sure they didn't go overboard with the booze.
Nick and I had initially toyed with the idea of having our weddings on the same day, but he wisely suggested splitting them up so we could each have our own moment to shine.
I totally got where he was coming from; after all, our wedding days were meant to reflect who we were as individuals.
I knew Nick like the back of my hand. His obsession with motorcycles was no secret, so I had a strong inkling that he would incorporate them into his celebration somehow.
Even though Nick was playing it close to the chest about his plans, I could practically see the wheels turning in his head.
It's gonna be hilarious.
I couldn't help but imagine Dad's face when he witnessed whatever crazy stunt Nick had planned.
Just as the party was kicking into high gear, I caught sight of Luke reaching for a fancy bottle of strong spirits from my stash – the kind of stuff that could probably knock out an elephant with just a sip.
Well, maybe not quite, but it'd definitely put me on my ass after half a bottle.
See, I've got a pretty solid tolerance for alcohol. Luke, on the other hand, would probably feel the buzz from the first drop.
I knew I had to intervene before he got himself into trouble. As he started to crack open the bottle, I sidled up to him with a dark look and casually remarked, "Let's hope you're just helping us open it, kid."
He turned to me with a sheepish grin, and I shot him a smirk in return, "I've got a belt handy, so it might be wise to think twice."
He pouted for a second, then reluctantly put the bottle back and wandered off into the crowd. Crisis averted – for now, at least.
I poured myself a generous glass from the bottle, savoring the rich aroma as it filled the air. Just as I was about to take a sip, Pete strolled up to me with a hopeful look in his eyes.
"Mind if I have a little sip too?" he asked, nodding towards the bottle in my hand.
"Not this one. It's a bit too strong for you," I replied.
Pete's shoulders slumped slightly, disappointed. "Come on, just a tiny bit?" he pleaded, giving me his best puppy eyes.
I chuckled at his persistence. "Nice try, little bro, but trust me, you're better not to be drinking at all." I said as I took a sip of my drink.
Luke returned with a mischievous grin, I shot him a puzzled look, wondering what he was up to. Before I could even figure it out, I spotted Nick coming behind him.
Typical. 😑
"Let Lucas have a taste of that, will ya?" he said and without waiting for my response, he reached over and poured Luke a quarter of a glass.