A Happy Wife

Written for https://lindaghill.com/2025/08/29/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-aug-30-2025/

‘A toast to a happy marriage, and just remember, a happy wife, and a peaceful life,’ the best man said, his speech finished.

Guests raised their flutes as the laughter died down from his drunken revelations.

The father of the bride pushed himself into a standing position. His palms sweating, he wiped some tissue over his forehead. He faced his daughter and she squeezed his hand before he faced the guests.

‘When I first held Marie in my arms, I looked at this perfect baby girl, with dark hair, and I was the luckiest person in the world. I could tell you stories about what she got up to when she was a kid but I won’t. Let’s just say she was a bit of a tomboy. She told me once, she preferred to play football over Disney princesses. When I walked her down the aisle, I knew she could be both.’ He smiled at his daughter, his smile catching. ‘I wish you both the same happiness I had with your mum. Don’t forget, never go to sleep on an argument, and listen to what each other has to say and you can’t go wrong.’

He resumed his seat, and drank all of his champagne.

‘Love you Dad . . . you said your speech would be short and sweet and it was.’