Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 134

Scene: The Reception Restaurant – Evening 

The reception was held in a quaint, family-owned restaurant near the ocean,  a few steps from the ceremony venue. The exterior of the building, with its ivy-covered brick walls and vintage lanterns, exuded a rustic charm. Inside, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect blend of elegance and intimacy. The space was bathed in soft, golden lighting that reflected off the crystal chandeliers hanging above, creating a shimmering effect that felt almost magical. 

Each table was adorned with delicate floral arrangements of white roses, eucalyptus, and sprigs of baby’s breath, arranged in antique gold vases. Flickering candles were scattered across the tables and along the windowsills, their soft glow casting dancing shadows on the walls. Place cards were handwritten in flowing calligraphy, tucked neatly beside small keepsakes: miniature jars of honey tied with twine, a nod to the sweet future awaiting the newlyweds. 

The centerpiece of the room was a spacious dance floor, dominating the center of the restaurant. Its polished wooden surface gleamed invitingly under the carefully dimmed lights, reflecting the warm hues of the chandeliers above. To one side of the dance floor, a small stage had been set up for the DJ, complete with fairy lights draped around the edges. 

A large corner of the room had been transformed into a cozy lounge area, with plush armchairs and sofas surrounding a stone fireplace. On the mantle, framed photos of Buck, Eddie, and Christopher were displayed—snapshots of their lives together, from family vacations to candid moments at the firehouse. Guests admired the display as they entered, smiling at the love and joy evident in every picture. 

Buck and Eddie entered the restaurant to the sound of loud applause and cheers that echoed through the room. The double doors swung open, revealing the couple hand in hand, their smiles so radiant it was as if they were lighting up the entire space. Eddie was the picture of calm joy, his posture relaxed but confident, while Buck’s energy was palpable—his grin wide, his cheeks slightly flushed with excitement. 

As they walked in, the guests began clinking their glasses rhythmically with their utensils, a clear call for a kiss. Buck laughed, his eyes sparkling as he turned to Eddie. 

Buck (teasingly): "I think they want us to give them a show."

Eddie smirked, rolling his eyes affectionately before leaning in to capture Buck’s lips in a brief but sweet kiss. The crowd erupted into even louder cheers and whistles, a few voices shouting playful encouragements. 

Guest (shouting): "More! That was too short!"

Buck and Eddie exchanged amused glances before indulging their audience with another kiss, this one lingering just long enough to elicit a new wave of applause and laughter. 

Beside them, Christopher beamed proudly, his small hand clasped in Eddie’s. He had been walking slightly ahead of them, but at that moment, he tugged on Eddie’s arm to pull him closer. 

Christopher (grinning up at them): "Come on, Dad, Buck. Let’s get to the table!"

Eddie (with a chuckle): "Alright, boss. Lead the way."

As the three of them made their way further into the room, the love and admiration from their family and friends were almost tangible. Guests leaned across tables to offer warm congratulations, some standing to greet them with hugs as they passed by. It was clear that everyone in the room was genuinely thrilled to celebrate the union of two people they all deeply cared for. 

Buck and Eddie eventually arrived at the head table, positioned to give them a clear view of the entire room. A small, understated sign rested on the table, reading “The Diaz-Buckley Family” in elegant script. As they settled into their seats, Buck glanced around the space, taking it all in.