“And me,” Mrs. Rawlings called out, making everyone laugh.
“And my mom, and probably my brothers, too,” Cece agreed with a grin. “But I don’t think we need to worry about that. The way you look at him, Cord - that’s the real deal. So here’s to Billy and Cord. To true mates, found family, and happily ever after.”
Everyone raised their glasses, chorusing the toast. Billy wiped at his eyes, and Cord pulled him closer, pressing a kiss to his temple.
Bullet’s speech was shorter but no less heartfelt. “I’ve known Cord a long time,” he said simply. “Seen him in good times and bad. But I’ve never seen him as happy as he’s been since he met Billy. That’s all anyone can ask for - someone who makes you better, makes you happy, makes you whole. Welcome to the team, Billy.”
As the afternoon wore on, Cord found himself watching Billy interact with their guests. He laughed at something Tristan said, helped Mrs. Rawlings bring out more food and chatted with Anthony about some project he was working on. He looked comfortable, confident, andhappyin a way that made Cord’s heart swell.
“You did good,” Bullet said, appearing at his elbow with two beers. “Real good.”
“He makes it easy,” Cord replied, accepting the bottle. “Being with him, loving him - it’s the easiest thing I’ve ever done.”
“Even when he had you wanting to go hunting all over town for him after catching his scent?”
Cord laughed. “Even then. Maybe especially then. He was worth the chase.”
“Ready to dance with me?”
Cord turned to find Billy holding out his hand, eyes bright, his smile wide. They’d set up a small speaker system for music, and something slow and sweet was playing. Without hesitation, Cord set down his beer and took Billy’s hand, letting his omega lead him to the cleared space that served as a dance floor.
Other couples joined them - Cece’s parents swaying together with practiced ease, Anthony spinning a laughing Tristan in a brotherly dance. But Cord only had eyes for Billy as they moved together, Billy’s arms around his neck, Cord’s hands settled on his husband’s waist.
“Good day?” Cord murmured.
“Perfect day,” Billy corrected. “Though I’m looking forward to everyone leaving so I can get you out of that suit.”
The words sent heat through Cord, and he tightened his grip. “Careful, or I’ll throw everyone out right now.”
Billy laughed, the sound bright and happy. “Patience, my husband. We only get married once, let’s enjoy it.”
As the sun began to set, casting golden light through the trees, their guests gradually began to leave. Hugs were exchanged, Mrs. Rawlings pressed leftover containers into their hands, and Mr. Brown shook both their hands with genuine warmth.
“You boys take care of each other,” he said. “And Billy, that offer still stands whenever you’re ready. The Foundation could use someone with your skills and life experience.”
Billy nodded, leaning into Cord’s side. “I’ll think about it. Thank you. For everything.”
Finally, it was just them and Cord’s team helping to clean up. But when Cord started gathering plates, Bullet waved him off.
“Get out of here,” he ordered. “We’ve got this. Go start your honeymoon.”
“We’re not going anywhere,” Billy protested. “We’re staying home tonight.”
“Exactly. Sogo homeand let us handle this.”
Billy looked like he wanted to argue, but Cece appeared and literally shooed them toward the house. “Go! Consummate! Be married! We’ve got the cleanup covered.”
Laughing, Cord swept Billy up into his arms, making his mate yelp and grab onto his shoulders. “You heard them. Time to go home, husband.”
He carried Billy through the back door as their friends’ laughter followed them, not setting him down until they were in their bedroom -theirbedroom, intheirhouse, where they’d buildtheirlife together.
“Hi,” Billy said softly, looking up at him with so much love Cord that felt breathless.
“Hi,” Cord replied, cupping his face. “We’re married.”
“We’re married,” Billy agreed, turning his head to kiss Cord’s palm. “I love you.”
“Love you too. So damn much.”
