Thanks To You

Chapter Thirty Eight(Zack/Alex)

The early morning sun bathed the city in a warm glow as Alex stirred in his bed. His phone's insistent ringtone jolted him awake, and he fumbled to answer. In order to keep tradition, Alex and Zack separated last night, determined not to see each other until they meet at the alter. Zach and Jack stayed at Jack and Rian's house, and Alex and Rian stayed at Alex and Zack's house.

"Hey, baby." Zack's voice filled the line, a mixture of excitement and longing evident. "I couldn't sleep much last night, I haven't slept without you in years.... And I was just thinking about today."

Alex smiled at the sound of his fiancé's voice. Alex is still half-asleep, but he sits up a little Munchkin, who was laying on Zack's empty side of the bed, meowed at the disturbance and Alex reached over and scratched her ear. "Me neither. I don't sleep at all without you pressed up against me. What's on your mind?"

Zach confessed, "I miss you so much, Alex. Can't believe in hours, we'll be married. I'm the luckiest person in the world to have you by my side."

Alex smiled. "I love you too Zack. I am so lucky that you decided to take a chance on me that day at the beach." Alex said sweetly.

"Best decision I ever made was deciding to take you on the date after the beach cleanup."Zack said sweetly.

As Zack continued to express his love and anticipation for their future together, Alex couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions. The sincerity in Zack's words made the upcoming wedding day even more significant.

Meanwhile, at Rian and Jack's apartment, Jack stumbled into the kitchen, rubbing his eyes. He decided to make breakfast for Zack to ease any pre-wedding nerves. The scent of burning toast filled the air, and Jack sighed, "Well, at least I tried."

With burnt toast and scrambled eggs that refused to hold their shape, Jack admitted defeat. "How about we grab breakfast at Frankie's diner instead."

Zack laughed. "Best idea you have had all morning."

At the diner, with a plate of pancakes for each of them, Jack looked across at Zack. "You know, Z, I've been waiting for this day almost as much as you have. I'm thrilled for you."

Zack, touched by Jack's sincerity, smiled, "Thanks, Jack. It means a lot. My dad decided not to show up, and it's been bothering me."

Jack's eyes softened, "Well, you won't be walking alone. How about I walk you down the aisle? It'd be an honor, and I know it's not the same, but I'm your best friend, right?"

Zach's eyes welled with tears as he nodded, "Jack, that's one of the sweetest things anyone has ever offered. I'd love that."

As they embraced the weight of the moment over their pancakes, Zack and Jack couldn't help but feel the gravity of the day ahead. Friends, no... brothers. breakfast, and heartfelt offers – the perfect ingredients for a morning full of emotions on the day of Zack and Alex's wedding.

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The reception hall at the golf club was a vision of elegance, adorned with gold and navy blue accents that complemented the joyous atmosphere. Guests sat in anticipation, marveling at the stunning décor that adorned the room. The scent of fresh flowers lingered in the air, creating an enchanting ambiance. All of Zack's meticulous planning, hard work, and micro obsessions really paid off.

At the altar, Alex, dressed impeccably in a navy blue suit with a gold vest and tie, stood with his best man Rian by his side. Rian offered comforting words, gently rubbing Alex's back as they awaited the arrival of Zack. Alex's nerves were palpable, emotions building within him as he prepared to see Zack on their wedding day.