Hunter had just taken a sip of his bourbon, when Matthew walked up to him and slapped him on the back. “Hunter, you sly old dog. I’ve heard through the grapevine that you’re getting married to Zoë. It’s a surprise to say the least.”
Hunter smiled contentedly. “Yeah, marriage fever seems to have taken over Club Submission. First Zane and Emma, and now Zoë and me. It’ll be you next.”
Matthew shook his head, a smile strengthening the lines around his mouth. “Oh, no, there’s not a woman in this Goddamn world that could tame me.”
Hunter roared with genuine happy laughter. “That’s exactly what I said, buddy.”
“So what the fuck happened?”
Hunter spread his arms wide, his palms up. “I fell in love with the most beautiful woman in the world. When that happens, a guy just doesn’t stand a chance.”
“I’m not knocking it, man. Whatever works for you. I can see Zoë is one special woman, but I prefer being single, and unattached.”
Hunter of all people knew what a sad, lonely existence that really was. “I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree on that one, Matt.”
Matthew smiled and squeezed Hunter’s shoulder. “Guess so, man. Anyway, congratulations. I wish you and Zoë all the happiness in the world.” He attracted Todd’s attention with a wave of his hand. “Say, Todd, open up a few bottles of champagne. The good stuff that we keep for special occasions like this. The drinks are on the house, make sure everyone has a glass.”
“Sure thing, boss, what are we celebrating?”
“Hunter and his good lady are getting hitched.”
“Wow.” Todd looked genuinely surprised. He came across and vigorously shook Hunter’s hand. “Congratulations, you’ve found yourself a great girl, only…”
“Only what, Todd?”
“Only, I distinctly remember you saying, you weren’t a settling-down type of guy.”
“What can I say. The lady just blew me away.”
Once the champagne was uncorked and flowing freely, Matthew shouted out, “Listen up, and gather ’round, everyone, Hunter’s getting married.”
Zoë melted into Hunter’s arms. His heart was full of love as he held her wonderful elfin face, and smiled into her beautiful green eyes.
“Speech, speech,” said Matthew. Everyone joined in echoing his words, chanting louder and louder—“speech, speech, speech, speech”—until Hunter was forced to raise his hands in surrender.
He laughed. “Okay, okay, you guys win.”
Hunter raised the glass of champagne, and wrapped his arm protectively around Zoë’s slender waist. He looked deep into her soul as he spoke from his heart. “To each and every one of you. May you find peace, happiness, and above all love, just as I have.” He passionately kissed Zoë’s lips, and Club Submission erupted with applause. He knew she would be by his side forever. “I love you, Zoë, and I always will.”
THE END