The reception.
The reception is a busy mass of people, chattering, and food. John and Hunter have the tablet nearest the centre of the veranda, table covered with dark blue cloth and decorated with reds and purples, anything matching. On either side would be Jane and Dave, both still dressed to their nines and happily enjoying the banter. And John is happiest, with his seat scooted close to Hunter so that his husband’s arm can wrap warmly around his shoulder. When he isn’t there, he is talking, receiving congratulations from everyone, and hopefully turning to watch Hunter gathering the same. Hunter can say what he likes, these people still love and like him just fine... John’s chaotic display of a family was Hunter’s now, and he wouldn’t be alone.
Speaking of family, John can see his dad is behaving himself and Huang is functioning well as a mediator between those he knows.. He is excited to see Draco made it! Feferi was here too, Handmaid, and a few others from the ring. John is elated to know they had the chance to step away from the tense situation that was the ring. Wendy is here, looking as regal as usual, and even the pleasant surprise of Mrs Paint and her own husband of another Boxcars! They greet him with love and adoration, though John knows that Hunter is probably wary of his own alternate.
John and Hunter return to their tables, food is served and so is more wine. John is at ease, the stress of the morning gone, and all thanks to his friends, family, and husband. He hopes to god that when he leans up and presses a kiss into Hunter’s jaw and hugs him gently around the neck while whispering an ‘I love you’ gets the point across.
Till then, he settles in, lets the night go.
