Page 31 of Silver Flirt

Suddenly, I see a familiar face as I scan the festively decorated ballroom.

Standing near the stage is Julie Murphy, glowing in an emerald green maternity gown that hugs her pregnant belly. A handsome man in a sharp suit has his arm around her waist, beaming with pride as they chat with other guests.

Bash follows my gaze. “Who’s that?”

“Her name is Julie. She’s the older sister of a troubled teen I represented a few years ago. The two of them had a terrible home life. Alcoholic mom, absent father. Her younger sister, Josie, got into some trouble along the way. But I helped Julie get custody of Josie, and that got her back on track.”

I realize I’m grinning like a fool watching Julie rub her belly. Bash notices, too. He chuckles. “Want to go say hi?”

My smile widens. “Would you mind?”

“Not at all.”

My heart races faster with each step, a flurry of nerves and excitement swirling inside me. What will I say after all this time? Will she even remember me?

As we get closer, I realize just how much Julie has matured. The shy, unsure teenager I knew has blossomed into a radiant, confident woman. Motherhood clearly suits her. I wonder if she’s found her calling and pursued her dream of becoming a teacher.

Bolstered by Bash’s support, I wave to get Julie’s attention. “Julie!”

Her head turns at the sound of my voice. I watch her brow furrow for a split second before recognition dawns. “Oh my gosh, Melissa? Melissa Graham?”

Joy lights up her face, and she starts moving toward us as quickly as her pregnant belly allows. I match her pace, meeting her halfway.

“I can’t believe it! What are you doing here?” Julie grips my hands, her smile impossibly bright.

“I’m wondering the same thing! It’s so good to see you!” I blink back sudden tears, overwhelmed by the memories flooding back.

Julie’s eyes shine with excitement. “Melissa, you won’t believe it. Josie is being honored here tonight! She’s receiving an award for her volunteer work with at-risk youth.”

“What? Julie, that’s incredible!” I gasp. My heart swells with pride for the troubled teen I once fought so hard for.

“I know, right? She’s come so far.” Julie shakes her head in amazement. “Oh, and we moved to Wyoming last year!”

“Wyoming, wow!” I try to picture Julie and her growing family in the rugged western landscape. “You’ll have to tell me all about it. But first, this honor for Josie. I can’t wait to hear more!”

Julie beams. “She’s worked so hard, Melissa. Mentoring younger kids, advocating for more resources, all while acing her classes. She’s unstoppable.”

Bash clears his throat beside me. I laugh, flustered. “Sorry, sorry. Julie, this is Bash Cooper, my boyfriend.”

Bash extends his hand. “Pleasure to meet you, Julie. I’ve heard great things.”

As they shake hands, I take a moment to gather myself. Seeing Julie again after all these years and introducing Bash feels surreal. Two pivotal chapters of my life are merging in the most unexpected way.

I have so many questions for her. But first, the man hovering protectively at her side. “And who is this charming gentleman?” I ask.

Julie beams. “This is Blake Donovan, my husband.” She takes his hand. Blake, this is Melissa Graham, the attorney I told you about, who helped Josie and me.”

The sheer gratitude shining in her eyes threatens to undo me completely. I swallow hard. “It’s wonderful to meet you, Blake.”

As we exchange pleasantries, I’m fascinated by the changes I see in Julie. The uncertain girl I once knew now stands tall, surrounded by love. I can’t wait to learn about the incredible woman she’s become.

It’s everything I dreamed for her and more.

I squeeze Julie’s hands once more. “I can’t wait to hear Josie’s speech tonight. To see both of you thriving like this means everything.”

Julie’s eyes shine with unshed tears. “We owe so much of it to you, Melissa. Your support, your guidance. You’ve been a lifeline for our family.”

I shake my head, deflecting the praise. “You and Josie did the hard work. I just pointed you in the right direction.”

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