I just got a review for the last chapter of this series in my inbox and was inspired to write the next installment in the series. So, seriously, review...for those reviews inspire me every time, to write more and keep going. :-) AND I know that all Quogan fans will like this one...

Speeches

A continuous clanking against a glass diverted the attention of the numerous people gathered from their plates of food to the front of the room, where the wedding party was seated. The man who had caused the noise ceased when he realized that all attention was on him. Clearing his throat, and glancing out at the sea of faces, his eyes pausing for a longer time on a set of beautiful brown ones, he began his speech.

“Hello people. My name’s Chase, for those of you who don’t know me. I’m, uh, Logan’s best man. So, as is tradition, I’m giving the speech to toast the newly wedded couple. Hmmm…what is there to say about Quinn and Logan? I didn’t really prepare anything…” He paused, grinning, feeling Logan’s glare although he couldn’t see it. Hearing a muffled giggle, he figured Quinn was more amused than her recently acquired husband at his obvious jest. Well, Chase thought it was obvious at least. “Before the groom here explodes in wrath, I’ll let you all in on a secret. I did prepare and here are my index cards with notes on them to prove it.” He flashed the crowd his cards, grinning at the response he received. “Okay. Quinn and Logan. I’ve known Logan since I was eleven years old and shared a room with him for five years. So I know what Quinn is getting into, making herself a permanent roommate of Logan’s. Feel sorry for her.” Here he paused, winking at Quinn and Logan, the former grinning while the latter looked undecided on how to feel.

“Quinn I met when I was thirteen. I thought she was odd. I still think she’s odd but she can really grow on you. Logan can attest to that fact. Back when Quinn started attending boarding school with Logan and I, the first year that girls were permitted, they didn’t get along. Not many people could get along with Logan and Logan couldn’t get along with most people.” Chase stopped for a beat, shrugging. “Not much has changed.” The audience laughed, especially those who knew Logan. Michael’s baritone laughter reached Chase’s ears and he smiled. “Eventually, they did start getting along, bonding over a broken heart. Logan has admitted wanting to simultaneously break the face of the guy who broke Quinn’s heart and thank him.” Reaching for his glass, he took a swig of his water, quenching his dry throat, before continuing on. “Their relationship began in secret and when my friends and I found out about it, we were floored. Literally. They outed themselves at prom and when we found this little tidbit of information, we fell to the floor. Well, I did at least.” The tinkling laughter of his girlfriend seemed louder than anyone else’s. He restrained from sending her a dirty look.

Since then, they’ve been through some ups and some downs but they made it here, before any of their close friends did. Although I just asked my girlfriend to marry me so please, congratulate me later.” He noticed her eyes rolling at his plug of their relationship but he ignored her yet again, figuring he’d get back at her later. Turning toward the married couple, he raised his glass in salute as he prepared finishing his speech. “Now, here’s my advice. Logan, always confiscate Quinn’s zap watch before an argument. Or, better yet, steer clear of said argument. Although, knowing you that might be hard.” A clearly peeved Logan narrowed his eyes at him. Chuckling, Chase placed his eyes on the glowing bride. “And Quinn, do your best to put up with this guy.” Red faced, Logan opened his mouth, as if to respond. A soft touch from Quinn’s hand stopped him. They shared a glance and then Logan shut his mouth, exchanging a dopey, happy smile with her. “To Quinn and Logan. You won’t always feel happy or in love but remember that you are.”

A chorus of “here, here’s” echoed throughout the hall and everyone toasted Mr. and Mrs. Reese. The two being toasted drank from their own glasses then kissed.

Desirae, Quinn’s Maid of Honor, stood as Chase as sitting. “Well, what can I say to follow that speech? And, anyway, who wants to sit for yet another long winded speech?” She sent Chase a teasing glance before going on. “I kind of feel sorry for Zoey.”

“Me too!” shouted out Michael from his spot next to Zoey. Everyone laughed when Zoey hit him in the upper arm, him rubbing the spot in mock pain.

“So, let’s raise another toast to this couple. May we all find the one we’ve been looking for, as they have.” A soft smile touched her lips. “And may we all have great friends who intervene when it is necessary, friends who confiscate phones, talk to ex-boyfriends, find out truths, and arrange meetings at karaoke bars without letting the friend of the confiscated phone know.” Confused stares assaulted her and she giggled, realizing that no one had a clue as to what she was talking about. “Well, Quinn and Logan get it,” she said, the grins on their faces confirming that they had. “Here’s to Quinn and Logan!”

“Quinn and Logan!” sang the crowd.

Once more, beverages were consumed and the married couple kissed.

Later, out on the dance floor, Logan held Quinn tight, their bodies barely swaying to the music. Putting his lips to her ear, he whispered, “At our 25th anniversary party, let’s make sure no one gives any speeches.”

“Oh Logan,” she sighed, pressing her hand against his shoulder.

His lips then closed the distance between them and her ear, softly touching the area in a brief kiss.

“Oh Logan,” she sighed again, in a much different manner. Then she placed her head to his shoulder, closing her eyes.

As they danced, their hearts beat as one. And they always would.

So, I figured that most people reading this are Choey fans so I made Zoey Chase's girlfriend instead of Lola, who I would've preferred sitting in that spot. Appreciate the sacrifice I made for you, the fans. ;-) Just kidding!