Page 166 of The Forever Vault

“Some people are just pretty, mom. It has nothing to do with me.”

“I think people are less pretty around you, babe.”

“Do you have your outfits for the wedding?” my mom asked.

“They arrived this morning while we were getting ready to come here,” Luke answered.

“Send me photos, or take photos to show me later. I bet you’ll be the handsomest couple there. Well, other than maybe the grooms. Give them my love.”

* * *

“Do you have the rings?”

I watched Luke feel his chest pocket, pull out the box, and open it to double check. “Yes.”

“Okay, close the box and put it back in the same pocket. You look super handsome, by the way.”

“I feel naked,” Luke said. He hadn’t stopped rubbing his hand over his head since we showered. “You don’t think it’s weird that they sent all the groomsmen a brand new pack of Coyote briefs to wear?”

“They want you all in the same outfit, down to the smallest detail. You know how Declan is.”

“I think Declan got a new contract with them. If he wants a photo of me in them, I’ll have to say no. Unless it’s private.”

“If he wants a photo of you in your underwear, I’ll have to say no,” I said. “Though we’ve gone further than that before.”

“I know,” Luke replied, “But now I’m engaged and the future’s wide open. I don’t wanna make any mistakes.”

“Hate to break it to you, tiger, but mistakes are a part of life.”

“How’d you get to be so smart?”

“Well, you are what you eat, so I guess your semen is filled with intelligence.”

“You’re incorrigible.”

“Is that a fancy word for adorable?” I asked.

Luke ignored me. “I better get us an Uber.”

“Why aren’t you getting ready at the venue again?”

“Ty was afraid there wouldn’t be enough space. I offered to get ready here.”

* * *

The Conservatory of Flowers was in the northwest corner of Golden Gate Park, across from the Olympic Village. The Uber had to drop us off at the entrance to the park due to security. They were only allowing guests into the park at this time, according to the man our driver spoke to. Luckily, our names were on the list and we had thought to bring our IDs. I sent a quick text out to the rest of the guys to make sure they brought theirs.

“You think that’s because I snagged an invite for Chad and guest?” I asked.

“The president’s son? Maybe, but I doubt it. It’s probably to keep the paparazzi out. I feel like Ty said a few celebrities were invited.”

As we made our way to the rather obvious and ornate Victoria greenhouse, I was glad I rented a tux. Khakis with a shirt and tie would have been extremely out of place. As part of the wedding party, Luke had his chosen for him. The navy suited him well.

After climbing the stairs, we found the location of the ceremony. Chairs were lined up facing the greenhouse, with small columns in between to navigate through the labyrinth of seats. An archway covered in flowers stood at the front.

“Where’s the aisle?” I asked.

“They’re coming in from the sides. Ty from the left, Declan from the right. I should go join the groom and start being a best man. I’ll see you after the ceremony.”