The rehearsal dinner was the night before the wedding, in a private room at the country club.

Tristan gave a toast, of course. He loved giving toasts.

He thanked Kelsey. He thanked Mom and Dad. He thanked “my investors, who believe in me.” Dad raised his glass proudly.

Then Tristan turned to our end of the table.

“And a special toast,” he said, “to my new brother-in-law, Dan. Living proof that nice guys finish last.”

He paused.

“In a Camry!”

The whole room laughed. Kelsey laughed so hard she cried.

I felt my face burning. I started to stand up.

Dan put his hand on my arm. Then he stood up himself, holding his sparkling water.

The room went a little quieter. Dan never made speeches.

“Congratulations, Kelsey,” he said quietly. “I've known you since you were seventeen. You've always been brave and funny and kind. Whatever happens tomorrow, you're going to be okay. I hope you know that your sister and I love you very much. Whatever happens.” He sat down.

There was an awkward silence.

“Whatever happens?” said Tristan, laughing. “What's going to happen, Dan? Is the Camry going to break down?”

People laughed again.

But Kelsey didn't. She was looking at Dan with a strange, puzzled expression.