Page 32 of David

“Are you sure?”

“I’ve never been more certain of anything.”

“Isn’t this the job of some cute little girl?”

“Do you know any cute little girls? Mine is not even a year old. Rain is still breastfeeding. So no. You’re perfect.”

“How can I be perfect? I’m too old for this job and want to dye my hair fiery red.”

She looks at me with a hint of seriousness before chuckling, entertained.

“You’re so easy, Liz.”

She lays the beautiful dress down and runs her fingers over the fabric.

“You mean you were joking?”

“I mean, you’re ridiculous. Nothing you say makes sense. I thought you wanted to be an author.”

“Yes. I want to be a novelist.”

“Then you need to lie better. Use your creative muscle. Being a redhead in your early twenties doesn’t disqualify you from being my flower girl.”

“I’m an introvert.”

“So am I, and I can’t hire someone to replace me. You and I will be great together. We’ll rehearse the steps and turns. Everything.”

“There’s a wedding rehearsal?”

“It sure is. A week from Thursday. It will be fun.”

I slump against the pillows while she slides back into her seat.

“You’ll be great. Trust me.”

“Everybody will be there.”

“Rightfully so.”

Her expression softens while she leans forward and touches my hand.

“I need you, Liz. I really do. I’m as scared as you are.”

“Why would you be scared?”

“Because I want everything to be perfect. That’s why I want to create good memories, so I can have something to smile about. And it would be easier for me if my best friend was there with me.”

She’s genuine, and I am so grateful. I no longer feel lost, stranded, and alone in the world.

What am I saying?

I’m more than grateful. I’m ecstatic.

My eyes tear up.

I’m still her best friend.

“Okay. We’ll do that,” I say, holding her hands. “We’ll do our best, and everything will be fine.”

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