“Start with a warm smile and raise your glass slightly...”
Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don't know me, I'm Mike. I've had the distinct honor of being Dave's best friend since high school, and subsequently, the unofficial third member of this relationship for the past five years.
They say three's a crowd, but honestly, I've eaten more appetizers across the table from these two than I've had hot meals alone. I've been the tie-breaker for movie nights, the mediator for the "where should we eat" debates, and the guy in the backseat trying to pretend he's asleep while they hold hands in the front.
But here's the thing about being the third wheel: you get a really good view. You see things that other people might miss.
I saw the way Dave looked at Sarah after their first date—like he had just won the lottery but was too scared to tell anyone yet. I saw Sarah patiently explaining to Dave, for the tenth time, that grey and navy blue are not the same color. And I saw how they became a team. Not just a couple, but a genuine partnership where one person's strength balances the other's weakness.
Dave, you've always been the guy with the big ideas, the one who jumps without looking. Sarah, you're the one who checks the parachute. And God knows, Dave needs someone checking his parachute.
Today, I'm officially retiring from my position as the third wheel. My watch has ended. But I couldn't be happier to step aside and watch you two start this adventure officially as a duo.
So, if everyone could please raise their glasses.
To Dave and Sarah. May your life together be full of love, laughter, and hopefully, occasionally, a dinner invitation for your old friend Mike. To the happy couple!