Page 235 of Morbid

"This man," Hakon says, pointing at Gunnar, "once punched a guy for looking at Ingrid too long at a party. They weren't even dating yet. He was just, quote, 'protecting her honor.'"

"He was creepy," Gunnar protests.

"He was the pizza delivery guy!"

Laughter erupts and Gunnar buries his face in his hands.

I'm laughing so hard my ribs hurt.

"We've watched this idiot pine after Ingrid for years," Ulf continues. "And we've got to admit—we didn't think he'd ever work up the nerve to tell her how he felt. We figured he'd just follow her around forever like a sad puppy."

"A very pathetic sad puppy," Hakon adds.

"The saddest, most pathetic puppy."

"I hate you both," Gunnar says.

"You love us."

"Debatable."

They raise their glasses.

"To Gunnar and Ingrid. May your marriage be long, your fights be short, and may Ingrid always remember—she could have donewaybetter."

"Cheers!"

Astrid's speech is softer, sweeter.

She talks about growing up with me, about watching me struggle and about seeing me finally find happiness with a man who deserves me.

"You're not just my sister," she says, looking at me. "You're my best friend. And watching you fall in love with Gunnar—watching you let yourself be loved—has been the greatest gift. I love you, Ingrid. I love you both. And I can't wait to watch your beautiful life unfold."

More tears and even more tissues.

Mom is on her fifth box at this point.

Dad's speech is short and gruff and perfect.

"Gunnar. You're a good man. You've proved that ten times over. Take care of my girl." He raises his glass. "To my daughter and my new son. May you have the life you deserve."

Simple.

Direct.

The most emotional thing I've ever heard him say.

And in this moment, I realize every hard thing I’ve ever endured has led me to right now.

I’d go through it all again to end up here.

THE END