She was chatting with some aunties, but almost as if she could feel the force of his gaze upon her, she turned toward him and smiled. It was the smile she reserved only for him, and it warmed him to his core. All her love for him was apparent and right there for everyone to see. He let himself become wrapped up in her smile, her gaze and her love. She was everything.

When finally he started toward her, he was waylaid by a couple of the other groomsmen, who had already had a few drinks. By the time he shook them off, he’d lost track of her. He spotted her talking to the wedding planner, a slightly grim expression on her face. He caught her eye, and she tipped her chin at him.

Daniel was frozen to his spot as he watched Annika brush aside her hair. Her henna-covered hands were gently clasped together, and she was fidgeting with one of her rings. He watched more closely as she bit her bottom lip and nodded her head just a tad too fast. She started to take a step in his direction, and the planner stepped with her. She was trying to get to him. He grinned, satisfaction taking over his nerves for a moment. A final nod to the planner, and she started toward him. Just then the DJ announced that everyone should take their seats for the arrival of the bride and groom.

He caught her eye and tilted his head toward the long table reserved for the wedding party, and they made their way separately through the crowd to the table. Daniel and Annika were seated at opposite ends. Hmm. It was quite possible Naya had done that just to mess with him.

Daniel attempted to make his way to her end of the table, but the lights dimmed, and the DJ prepared to announce the new couple, so he found his seat and sat down. He tried to make eye contact with Annika, but she was deep in conversation with an auntie.

Naya and Ravi were announced to great applause and cheering, but Daniel only half heard what was going on. He kept trying to catch Annika’s eye. It was taking all his self-control to stay seated and not run to her. There were lovely speeches about Naya and Ravi, their courtship and their future lives together.

They were the longest speeches in the world.

A beautifully decorated five-tier cake was rolled out. Naya and Ravi cut the cake to the tune of “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” laughing as they fed each other. By the time Naya and Ravi took to the dance floor for their first dance together, and the DJ finally invited couples to join them, Daniel was about to jump out of his skin.