***
At the reception, Olivia looked radiant in her long, strapless white dress. She wore her hair up and her makeup was done perfectly to accentuate her soft features. Ian sat with his arm around Simon’s shoulder as they watched Olivia and Justin’s parents make speeches.
Finally, it was time for Simon to say something as Olivia’s man of honor. He stood up in front of the crowd and fought back tears as he spoke.
“Olivia is my best friend. I’ve known her since we were in school, and she’s always had my back. No one has been as fierce in their support of me. No one has been as kind and giving as we both grew up together.
“Today she’s marrying the man she loves. The man who makes her so happy. I’m honored to be here to celebrate this day with her.
“I’m fortunate enough to say that Olivia has inspired me to be a better person. She’s taught me how to go after what I want, fearlessly, and she’s helped me to learn how to love.” Simon looked over at Ian, who wiped away tears from his cheeks. He raised his glass to Olivia and Justin, and felt happy that he could be there on one of the most important days of her life, and share it with the man that he loved.
***
“That was a beautiful speech, tiger,” Ian whispered into Simon’s ear as they slow danced at the reception.
“Thanks. I meant it.” He looked into Ian’s eyes. “I meant it when I said that I learned how to love. I love you.”
They embraced and danced like they were the only two people in the room.
Hot Off the Press (Ridgemont University Book 1) Page 35
