Back in Minnesota :
As the wedding day drew nearer, Jack and Claire found themselves caught up in a whirlwind of preparations, coordinating everything from the venue to the flowers, all the way from their home base in Charleston, Massachusetts. With each passing day, the anticipation grew, and before they knew it, they found themselves just a week away from saying "I do."
Feeling the need to oversee the final details in person, Jack and Claire boarded a flight back to Minnesota, where their journey had begun. The familiar sights and sounds of their hometown welcomed them back, evoking a sense of nostalgia and excitement as they embarked on the final leg of their wedding preparations.
Upon their arrival, they were greeted by their families and friends, who had eagerly awaited their return. There was an air of excitement in the air as they began to finalize the last-minute details, ensuring that everything was perfect for their special day.
Despite the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, Jack and Claire found moments of quiet reflection, stealing away for walks by the lake or cozy evenings spent reminiscing about their journey together. With each passing day, their love for each other only seemed to grow stronger, solidifying their bond as they eagerly anticipated the beginning of their new life together as husband and wife.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the Minnesota landscape, Jack found himself at his favorite local hangout, O'Rilley's, surrounded by his closest friends and former teammates. Laughter filled the air as they shared stories and reminisced about their shared adventures on and off the ice.
Robbie, ever the loyal friend, approached Jack with a warm smile, a pint of beer in hand. "Jack," he greeted, clapping him on the back. "Glad you could make it, buddy."
Jack returned the smile, feeling a surge of gratitude for the camaraderie of his friends. "Wouldn't miss it for the world," he replied, raising his own glass in a toast.
As they settled into a corner booth, Robbie leaned in, his voice filled with genuine affection. "You know, Jack, I've been meaning to tell you something," he began, his gaze steady.
Jack raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Robbie's serious tone. "What's on your mind, Robbie?" he asked, a note of curiosity in his voice.
Robbie took a moment to collect his thoughts before speaking. "I just wanted to say how happy I am for you," he said earnestly, his eyes locking with Jack's. "Marrying Claire... it's the best thing that could've happened to both of you."
Jack felt a lump form in his throat at Robbie's heartfelt words. "Thanks, Robbie," he replied, his voice thick with emotion. "That means a lot coming from you."
Robbie nodded, a warm smile spreading across his face. "You two belong together, Jack," he said firmly. "I've seen the way you look at her, the way she lights up when you're around. It's obvious that you're meant to be."
Jack couldn't help but smile at Robbie's insight. "You know us pretty well, huh?" he remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice.
Robbie chuckled, taking a sip of his beer. "After all these years, I'd like to think I've got a pretty good read on you," he replied, a twinkle in his eye.
As the night wore on, Jack found himself surrounded by friends who had become like family, their support and encouragement serving as a reminder of the love and camaraderie that had carried them through the best and worst of times. And as he looked around at the smiling faces of his friends, Jack felt a sense of gratitude wash over him, knowing that he was exactly where he was meant to be.