"As best man, I am required to make a speech," Zac said with a cheeky grin. "So here it is. I remember when Mackie was in diapers. Vaguely, but I do remember. Of course, with all the kids in our family, it's hard to remember specific people wearing them, but anyway. The point is, I've known Mackie all his life, even if I didn't pay as much attention to it as I should. Sandy, I never met you before recently, so, while I can say you've married a really great guy... I don't know if he's married a great girl."
He grinned at her.
"But hey, if Mackie likes you, I'm sure you're great. After talking to my wife, Kelsey, and my sister, Avie, I have decided that I had better warn you about something that you may not be aware, Sandy. What we affectionately call the Hanson family curse."
There was laughter from certain family members. Mackie included and he looked a little embarrassed when Sandy gave him a confused look.
"Basically, myself, Ike and Tay, when we got married to our respective wives, she was pregnant within a month. Just thought I should warn you. And on that note, I'd like to raise a toast to the happy, if embarrassed, couple. To Mackie and Sandy!"
"Mackie and Sandy!" the guests echoed.
"Sorry Sandy," Kelsey said. "When I suggested that someone should warn you, I didn't think he'd do it in his speech."
"Kel, you're married to the guy. I think you of all people should know you can never know what to expect from him," Mackie teased.
"Like my speech? Did I embarrass you enough?" Zac asked, grinning broadly as he sat down.
"Nope."
"Dang, I'll have to try again."
"Sit down."
"Is that true?" Sandy asked. "The curse thing?"
"Yep. I know, it's happened to me twice," Zac grinned.
"Speaking of which, where is my little niece?" asked Taylor.
"With all the other babies," Kelsey answered. "Hopefully Kitty won't require mommy's attention until after."
"Motherhood getting you down huh?" Rita asked sympathetically.
"You could say that. I don't know how you people manage eight. Let alone how Ike can handle... how many is it now?"
"Twenty," Isaac answered.
Sandy stared, wide eyed.
"Twenty?" she repeated.
"Yeah. Five sets of twins, five single births and two sets of triplets."
"That's twenty-one."
"One of the triplets died."
"Oh."
"How is Babsie?" asked Jess.
"Still in a coma."
"Anyway, uhh," Mackie said, breaking the silence that followed. "Sandy and I better move around to the next table. Lots of guests to greet and so little time."