Chapter 26
The day had finally arrived. Even on such an important day, Simon couldn’t neglect his new duties as editor of the Ridgemont Weekly, so he quickly answered a call from Dennis about the latest edition as he stood outside of the church. It was a magnificent day, the perfect day for such a special occasion, and Simon felt excited and content. He finished the call with Dennis, who told him to enjoy the day, that he would be able to handle the crisis on his own. Simon decided to take his advice, and walked towards the entrance of the church hall.
Zuko stood outside, looking incredibly dashing in his blue tuxedo and bow tie. He smiled at Simon and hugged him. “I can’t believe this is happening! It feels so soon!”
“I know! I’d better be ready at the front of the church. What time is it?”
“It’s not time yet. Are you nervous?”
“A little. But mostly excited.”
Simon felt uncomfortable in the hot suit he was wearing, but he knew that he looked great in it. He had perfectly trimmed his beard and styled his hair, and he wore a red tie that he knew Ian loved to see him in.
Zuko walked inside to sit next to Jeremy. “I’ll see you in there. Good luck.”
Simon thanked him and took a deep breath. He was ready to take his place.
He felt a tap on his shoulder then. He turned around and was taken aback: Ian stood there, smiling his megawatt smile and looking more handsome than Simon had ever seen him. His suit fit him perfectly, and his cheeks were red with excitement.
“Looking handsome, tiger,” Ian said, winking.
“You too. But you shouldn’t be here. Shouldn’t you be inside already?”
“Relax, Olivia is running late, as expected. Poor Justin is a mess of nerves. I’ve been trying to console him.”
“I’m supposed to be helping Olivia get ready, but her mom chased me away. Said it was no place for a man to be in a bride’s changing room. So I guess I’ll just have to carry out my man of honor duties inside the church. Olivia tried to argue but her mom has had a few already so it was pointless.”
“She’s lucky to have you,” Ian smiled, and kissed him. They walked into the church hand-in-hand, ready to witness Olivia marry Justin.
Hot Off the Press (Ridgemont University Book 1) Page 34
