Page 81 of Even Ground

“I’ll have you know I once made an entire movie with an English accent. I know my arseholes from my assholes.”

She flicks her long hair back, amusement all over her face. “I remember that movie. Your accent wasn’t that great.”

“Okay. Now I’m offended and I’m hanging up the call.”

She does that thing with her tongue again, and I know it’s an empty threat. I don’t want to disconnect. If tonight wasn’t so important, I’d sit here and talk to her till I fall asleep.

“I really love our friendship, Pania. I hope you know that.”

She grins from ear to ear. “Me too. You’re a good guy, Reece. Better than I think you realise.”

“I’m glad you think so.”

“Good luck.” She grimaces. “Is it bad luck to wish you good luck?”

I fiddle with my bow tie. “I don’t think so. I do appreciate it.”

“Knock ‘em dead, Reece. I’ll be watching on TV. Gotta look out for my girl.”

I grin. “I’ll be sure to give her a kiss from you. And a hug. And maybe another kiss.”

Pania rolls her eyes. “You’re such a dick. Go and have some fun.”

After the call disconnects, I sit and look at the blank screen for a minute. I’m never sure how I feel when I’m not with her, but even when we’re talking on the phone, Pania has this way of making me feel good.

She’s got just as smart a mouth as Delaney, but that helps me keep my feet on the ground.

I used to envy Josh that he had Delaney. We used to try and keep each other from getting big-headed, but she keeps him grounded in a way no one else ever could. Pania does the same for me, although I don’t even know if she realises.

Delaney’s now six months pregnant, and it’s brought her and Josh closer than ever. I want what they have so much I can taste it, and for the first time in my life, I can see a path forward for me.

It’s been easier than I thought it would be.

For so long I was hooked on the good life, cruising with no responsibilities. Now I want more, and I’m so close to feeling good enough about myself to reach it.

I look at the clock again.

Better get this show on the road.

* * *

Delaney glows. She has this radiance about her tonight, and it’s hard to look away. Josh was always my best friend, but his wife is right up there with him. Her calmness soothes my soul even when it’s not aimed at me. Delaney asked Pania to attend, but it’s mid-term for her. I just wish more than anything she was with us.

I’m not even sure I should be here.

I never thought I’d be an award-nominated actor. Sure, maybe Teen Choice or something like that, but an Academy Award?

This is an event I might never get to attend again. But then again, this is a movie unlike any I’ve ever made before. Sure, I messed around in the beginning, but once we started filming, we all put our heart and soul into it. I’ve never believed in anything so much.

“Delaney, you look amazing.”

She turns and meets my gaze. “You don’t scrub up too bad yourself.”

I peck her on the cheek. “Excited?”

She beams. “Terrified. But I’m here, and everything seems to be going well. We’ve stopped about five times for Josh to be interviewed, and my ankles will be mega-swollen by the time we get inside. But it’s a wonderful night. Good luck.”

I adjust my bow tie. “It’s crazy to think we’re even nominated. You’re our good luck charm.”

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