“Should I go get the wine?”

“Wine does sound delicious after that wonderful dinner,” Mom vocalized. “I'll go get a bottle. Would you like red or white, dear?”

The question was directed at my father who still hadn't stopped dancing. He raised his hands up and shrugged. “Whatever you want, darling.”

Jen rolled her eyes. “Please, don't dance like that at my wedding reception.”

“Why not? These were the hottest moves in my day!”

Mom giggled as she retreated to the kitchen.

Jen retained her mournful expression as I chuckled harder.

“I guess you'll just have to accept this one, eh?” I teased.

“There's only so much accepting I can do before I lose my mind.”

“Hey, you've got me.”

She smiled warmly. “And I can't tell you how much I appreciate it.”

“Of course, sis. I'll always have your back.”

“And I will, too!” Dad chimed in as he took Jen's hands. “Come on, Jenny. Let's practice for our first dance together.”

“Dad,” she groaned. “You know I need a glass of wine first.”

He chuckled. “Alright, then. I'll quit. For now.”

We each laughed as Mom returned with a bottle of white wine and a bucket of ice. She set the bucket in the center of the table and the buried the wine into it.

“Let it chill for a minute,” she alerted everyone. “Don't be too eager, now.”

“Thanks, Mom,” Jen and I replied simultaneously.

She gave us each a grin. “You two are such good children. I'm proud of you today. You should know that.”

“Mom, don't get too sentimental yet. Save some for the wedding speech,” I joked.

“I just wanted you to know,” she expressed warmly. “I'm very proud.”

“Thanks, Mom,” Jen said. “That means a lot.”

“It does,” I agreed.

“So, Levon, do you have a date for the wedding?”

I tried not to look sour but I must have failed because my mother burst into a fit of giggles.

She wiped the corners of her eyes as she said, “Well, I guess that's a no!”

I shook my head. “No, I don't, Mom.”

“I figured you would meet a pretty French girl overseas.”

“I just don't have time to date.”

I feel like a broken record, I reflected while trying to smile.I don't have the time . . . or the willpower. There just isn't anybody like my high school sweetheart . . .