Page 41 of Last Boy

I flashback to my freshman year of high school. It was the first time we were in different classes now that we were in a new school.

On the walk to school, he glanced at me and said almost the same words. “If you need me, I won’t be far.”

“Okay,” I whisper, nodding my head slowly. “I’ll, uh, see you later.” Reaching for the door handle, I smile. “Thanks again, Walker. Night.”

His eyes grow sad, and he holds his hand up. “Good night, Poppy. If you need me…you know where to find me.”

Pushing the door open, I climb down from his truck and head inside.

My mind can’t help but wonder…

Does he mean what he just said?

And if he does, where does that leave us?

12

Poppy

I peer out into the crowd, seeing hundreds of smiling faces. Christmas is coming, and so many mothers have brought their children tonight to get in the holiday spirit. I guess The Nutcracker will do that.

Brooks has been putting on The Nutcracker since I was a kid. And this particular show at this venue has always been special to me. Because I remember the first time I watched it live onstage. I was in the sixth grade, and our class took a field trip. Most of the kids’ parents had sent them with money to buy snacks. I didn’t have any money, but Walker had been helping an older lady who lived the next street over from ours. She’d pay him to mow the lawn and keep her yard picked up. He used most of the money for hockey necessities. But saved a little here and there too.

The field trip was optional. And while Walker came with me, Van said hell no and skipped.

I remember when Walker told me he’d be right back, only to return with popcorn, drinks, and candy. I swear he spent all the money he had brought just for me. And I knew if I hadn’t gone to that show, he wouldn’t have either.

The Nutcracker isn’t even supposed to be emotional. But I watched those dancers onstage, and I felt every emotion possible. I was in complete awe of their talent and how they captured the audience.

I knew right then that I wanted to be onstage one day even if it was just a performance for the local community to come out and watch or if it was on Broadway. I wanted to be good enough for other little girls to watch and think to themselves…One day, that’s what I want to do.

That was exactly what I felt when I first saw The Nutcracker. And he was right next to me, holding my hand, when he saw the emotion on my face.

After that, he’d save money just to take me every year. The last time was during my freshman year, before he left.

“I’ve got a surprise for you, babe.” Ryann’s voice pulls me from my thoughts, and when I turn, I find her holding out a huge bouquet of the most beautiful flowers.

Slowly, I take them and frown. “Did you get these for me? Or…”

“Watson just brought them in.” She shrugs. “Says you have a secret admirer. He didn’t tell me who it was.” She winks. “Spill the tea, baby girl. I’m mighty thirsty.”

I give her my best confused look. “I have no idea who these are from.”

“You lie like a rug,” she whispers, shaking her head. “I will find out. I alllllways do.”

I keep my face unfazed before, finally, she struts away. And then I move the flowers around until I find a card.

I remember the first time I watched The Nutcracker. Somehow, I think I’ll like it more this time. Watching you dance has always been my favorite thing.

—W

P.S. Good luck, Poppyseed.

My heart squeezes before it beats faster—and faster—almost like I’m running on a treadmill or doing some insane cardio workout.

Walker is here. Like…here. To watch me perform.

Sure, he was at the fundraiser, but that was different. He was performing too. And I was doing a silly number with Cade. This performance tonight challenges me. It pushes me. And also, it’s a lot of choreography.

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