The air was charged with excitement, joy and love. Guests were mingling on the dance floor, some were idlely standing by and chitchatting. Your younger cousins ran around, laughing and chasing each other.

After six years of dating your mother, Shouta proposed. That was a year ago, the past year was full of wedding preparations. Your mother was ecstatic, truly happy with how her life, and yours, have come.

Shouta and your mother was sitting at the sweetheart table while you sat at the family table nearby. The party was in full swing; loud music, dancing and cheers. You were absentmindedly listening to your grandmother as she spoke, your focus wasn’t on anything or anyone.

Anxiety settled in your stomach, weighing you down in your seat. You were asked to make a speech for the wedding, which would lead to your gift for Shouta.

When the music dimmed and Shouta’s Best Man, Hazashi, stepped up onto the stage, everyone turned their attention to him. He began to tell his speech, dedicating it memories he and Shouta shared and hoped for a happy marriage and life for your mother and Shouta.

After Hazashi and your mother’s maid of honor had said their speeches, you were called up to the stage. As you passed the sweetheart table, Shouta grabbed your arm and pulled you over.

“Breathe, kid,” he said softly. “You look like you’re about to faint.” He grabbed his cup of water and handed it to you, a fatherly love in his gaze as he looked at you. “Take a sip, breathe. You’ll do great, kiddo.” Shouta said with a reassuring smile and gave your arm a squeeze.