Page 45 of Fun Together
She shakes her head. “No, we’re not doing a ceremony, although this will be news to your sister. You just need to say a few words and that’s it.”
I’m honestly a little nervous about this speech. What do I know about marriage? What do I know about love? Specifically, about a love like the one my parents have. They communicate telepathically, that’s how in sync they are. In fact, right now I watch them ask each other from opposite sides of the kitchen,Will we regret asking Eli to speak at this party?with nothing but two blinks. They’re probably worried I’ll say something inappropriate in front of my ninety-year-old grandma.
“Just be yourself. Everyone loves you and you’ll know what to say. Just keep it classy and sincere.”
I take my phone out of my pocket to check the time before heading over to Andrew’s place to check on the plants. I see that Faye’s responded to my text.
Faye: I see you’re very busy . . . riding your Huffy bike?
Eli: Got my training wheels off and everything.
Faye: Wow big day for you.
Eli: Helping my dad with some yard work. Long story. What’s up?
Faye: I was hoping to chat more about that project manager job.
Faye: I don’t even know if I have the experience for it.
Eli: Yeah, we can def talk about it. Do you have a resume?
Faye: I’m sure I can dig one up, but I’m sure it needs work.
Eli: Do you want to meet up and look at it together? Might be easier to talk through in person.
Or am I just looking for a reason to see her? I could easily look at her resume and give her comments and suggestions over a phone call.
Faye: How about I buy you a coffee in exchange for the help?
“What are you smiling at?” Mom asks.
“Was I smiling?”
“You still are. Who are you texting?”
“Do you remember Faye, Andrew’s girlfriend from school?” Faye practically lived at our apartment so I know they met a few times when my parents would visit.
“Yes, I remember her! She seemed sweet. Kind of quiet.”
“She works at Millionfish, too. She might be a good internal candidate for a job I’m on the hiring team for. I think we’re going to grab a coffee to look over her resume and talk about the role.”
“She isn’t in Amsterdam with Andrew?”
“No, they broke up.”
“Aw, that’s too bad. I hope Andrew is okay. He never responds to my texts inviting him over for dinner.”
“He’s a workaholic. I can’t believe he’s even taking a vacation, honestly.”
“I’m glad he’s taking some time off.” She takes another casual bite of a fry. “Based on the smiling I’m guessing you and Faye are . . . friendly?”
I don’t roll my eyes even though I want to. “Yes, Mom, we are friends.”
A friend I selfishly enjoy flirting with. A friend I selfishly enjoyed taking care of when they were sick, maybe going a little overkill with the groceries. But seeing her laying there and not feeling well, knowing she’d wake up to that empty apartment. No one wants to be sick and alone.
Eli: How about tomorrow morning? What’s your favorite coffee spot?
We decide to meet at 10:30 at a café near her apartment.
