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    Cover of The Last One at the Wedding
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    The Last One at the Wedding

    by
    The Last One at the Wedding by Wendy Willis is a sharp and poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships. Set during a wedding, the novel follows a character who finds herself reflecting on her own life choices as she observes the couple and the dynamics of those around her. Through keen observations and introspection, the story delves into themes of personal growth, the passage of time, and the bittersweet nature of change.

    Chapter 7 begins on a Sunday morning when Frankie returns home to Pennsylvania, only to find an elegant wedding invitation from the Gardners. The invitation invites him to the wedding of Aidan, the Gardners’ son, and his daughter Maggie. Just after discovering the invitation, Frankie receives a call from his sister, Tammy, who excitedly sings about the wedding and asks if things have improved between him and Maggie. Tammy is eager to hear about Frankie’s recent dinner with Aidan, but Frankie’s mind is preoccupied with a mysterious black bag he found in Aidan’s toilet tank. He suspects that it might contain cash, adding a layer of intrigue to the day’s events. Despite Tammy’s enthusiasm, Frankie can’t help but feel that something unusual is at play.

    As their conversation shifts to Aidan, Frankie shares his doubts about the young man, describing him as polite but somewhat quiet. Despite his reservations, Frankie admits that Aidan’s success and the wealth of the Gardners make him feel like an outsider. Tammy, however, insists that Aidan is a good match for Maggie, even comparing him favorably to her past relationships. Frankie feels a deep desire to understand Aidan better but also confesses that he feels intimidated by the world Aidan comes from. He worries that he may never fit into this new world that Maggie is becoming a part of, but Tammy encourages him to trust her judgment and Maggie’s decision. This ongoing conversation highlights the divide between Frankie’s more humble background and the life Maggie is about to embark on with Aidan.

    In a surprising turn, Tammy shares that she asked Maggie about a prenuptial agreement. Maggie revealed that Aidan and she already have one in place, ensuring an equal division of assets if they ever divorce. Frankie is taken aback by this, feeling unprepared for such a serious conversation so soon in their relationship. He had hoped for a more straightforward and romantic union, but the prenuptial agreement suggests a level of caution that Frankie wasn’t expecting. Tammy insists that Frankie should support Maggie’s decision wholeheartedly, understanding that it was Maggie’s choice to protect herself legally. Though unsettled, Frankie knows deep down that he needs to respect his daughter’s wishes, no matter how it challenges his own comfort level.

    Feeling the pressure of wanting to contribute to the wedding, Frankie decides that he will cover the alcohol expenses, estimating the cost to be between $5,600 and $8,000. He knows Maggie might not be thrilled with the idea, especially considering the Gardners’ wealth, but he feels determined to help. When Frankie suggests covering the expenses, Maggie resists, believing that Aidan’s father, Errol Gardner, would likely refuse such help due to Frankie’s financial situation. Despite Maggie’s hesitation, Frankie remains resolute, and he requests Errol’s number, hoping to speak directly with him about the matter. Maggie reluctantly agrees to provide the contact, but she’s clearly uncomfortable with the decision.

    When Errol finally calls, Frankie is pleasantly surprised by their immediate connection over their shared love for baseball. The conversation flows easily, and Frankie feels a sense of reassurance as they bond over the sport. This unexpected camaraderie boosts Frankie’s confidence, and as the conversation turns to the wedding, Frankie expresses his desire to cover the bar tab. The two men engage in a lighthearted negotiation, ultimately settling on Frankie’s contribution of $8,000, a gesture that feels both significant and personal. Frankie walks away from the call feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment. This financial gesture, he realizes, is not just about the money—it’s about investing in his daughter’s future and showing her that he supports her choices, even when they take him out of his comfort zone.

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