Moments


Daniel's Speech


Clink. Clink!

"Attention! Attention, everyone!" Daniel cut into the hubbub. "As the mistress of ceremonies and fair maid of honor, Miss Martinelli, has so kindly directed me, it is now time for me to give you the Best Man's Speech."

The general hubbub of the dining hall quieted as all eyes turned expectantly to the dark-haired man.

"A speech that I have so earned the right to give as I was the one of the few in our mutual circles who put his money where his mouth was in support of this relationship…" He smiled unapologetically at some of the disapproving frowns at this admission and matter-of-factly defended his actions with: "Yes, yes, I confess I and my colleagues at the New York branch were and have been betting on the love life of these two. And, Wallace, I have not forgotten that you owe me."

Over most of the crowd's amused and indulgent chuckling, he continued, "The office pool was originally instigated by Ramirez, who opened a book on how long it would be before our Deputy and his partner were to take out their work frustrations by – what is that Brit term again? – oh yes, snogging - by snogging each other senseless. Unfortunately for many, their professionalism prevented such an occurrence and many gave up hope.

"I however held out. Not for something so tawdry, but for the mutual affection, adoration, and respect that we see here today. I held out because although Jack, my friend, you are, no offense, a bastard, Peggy makes you a tolerable bastard."

"No offense taken. It's all too true," Jack magnanimously declared, giving his Marge's hand an affectionate squeeze. She (noticeably) did not protest in defense of her groom at Daniel's statement or at his next. In fact, her smile got even bigger.

"Peggy, I am still not sure what he brings to the table for you, but I do know that you and he are better as a whole together.

"I also know you two will not have a 'happily ever after'. No one ever does, and the two of you are too … independent-minded … for it to be smooth sailing.

"But I do wish you two many happy moments together that make all those stormy moments that life throws at you - and you throw at each other - worthwhile."

Raising his champagne flute, he concluded:

"To Peggy and Jack Carter – er – Thompson."

Again, there were indulgent chuckles (and a few heckles at the surname 'slip'), as all joined Daniel in raising their flutes and repeated word-for-word his toast - even Jack.


A/N: If I were ending it here, I would conclude with:

"And they shared many happy moments together until the end of their days – including every one of Jack's requested dances with his Marge and then some."

But as I am not, please, stay tuned for the actual wedding day ; )