We were leaving. It was our next chapter.
One that we were writing together.
After the minister pronounced Jordan and Maysie man and wife there was a loud cheer and everyone was on their feet, rushing towards the newly married couple.
There were a lot of tears and even more laughter.
This was the last time all of us would be together for a while. Not until Vivian and Cole’s wedding in a few months.
We were scattering in all directions. But the eight of us would always be connected.
Maysie, Vivian, Riley, and me wrapped our arms around each other while the guys punched each other, or whatever they did as a way of saying congratulations.
“You did it, Mays,” I said through my tears.
“We all did it,” Maysie sniffled.
“Who would have thought we’d all end up here?” Vivian mused.
“I’m just glad that we ended up here together,” Riley said. Maysie kissed her cheek, leaving behind a smear of lipstick.
“I love you girls,” Maysie murmured.
“We love you too.” I reached out put a hand on her belly. “And I, for one, can’t wait to spoil this little girl rotten.”
Maysie gave me a wobbly smile. “You’ll be the best auntie ever.”
“Okay ladies. I’m stealing my wife now.” Jordan broke up the lovefest and pulled Maysie away.
People instantly swarmed them. Jordan’s parents spoke with Maysie’s mom and dad. Moore hugged Maysie and Paco slapped Jordan’s ass. Dina was snotting away and Jaz put a comforting arm around her shoulders. I saw Eli approach Maysie and Jordan, offering congratulations. Maysie gave him a hug and Jordan shook his hand.
Oh, how times had changed.
“You look beautiful.” Mitch’s arm slid around my waist and I felt his warm breath on my cheek.
“I don’t know whether to be overjoyed or completely depressed,” I told him honestly, leaning my head against his shoulder. His hand softly rubbed my back in long, even strokes.
“I’m happy for Maysie and Jordan. I’m happy for Riley and Garrett. And Vivian and Cole. But I’m sad too. Because we’re all splitting up,” I sighed and wiped my eyes again. Stupid tears.
Mitch kissed the top of my head and started to lead me towards the house. I could see caterers setting up tables and chairs in the yard. Large speakers were being brought out of the house and were now playing a compilation of Generation Rejects’ songs.
“I think you can feel both, G. You can be happy for everyone, but you can be sad too. Change is hard. Growing up is even harder. But just because we won’t all be together doesn’t mean we will lose that connection. It’ll always be there.”
The music changed and a familiar Rejects’ tune pumped out of the speakers. Mitch hummed under his breath and I looked up at him, noting the wistful expression on his face.
“Do you ever wonder if you guys made the right decision? Do you regret it?”
Mitch’s face softened and he leaned down to kiss me gently. “No. I don’t regret it for a second. Music will always be a part of my life. I miss playing with the guys, but I don’t miss the drama and being on the road.” He kissed me gently. “Or being away from you. That was always the worst part.”
“Well you’re stuck with me now,” I teased.
“And I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Then we were really kissing. The sort of kissing that makes breathing difficult and knees wobbly.
“Stop chewing her face off, Mitch.”
We broke apart to find his sister, Charlotte, holding her little girl in her arms. She gave us a knowing smile and I flushed a bit in embarrassment.
“Hey, sis, thanks for cock blocking me. We should make you a T-shirt that says Bad Timing,” Mitch muttered.