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Nick
“The place looks great, Nick. But this right here was the best idea,” Rae says, pushing her legs off the porch so the swinging bench we’re sitting on sways forward and back. It’s more of a glider than a swing, but it’s comfortable and perfect for the front porch. I happened to see it listed on a local online marketplace for just over a hundred dollars and decided to grab it. It makes this feel more like home.
Rae’s right, though. We nailed the inside too. She helped me figure out what Leigh likes the most—something I knew but couldn’t articulate. She loves gray, black, and white with pops of color. We went for reds and purples in the living room, picking out bright throw pillows to go with neutral charcoal and gray blankets and a matching couch cover. We found some funky-patterned Corelle plates on sale, got a mix of colored plastic cups, and kitchen utensils in a range of colors. And for our bedroom, I went with black and white patterned sheets with bright green and teal accents. It looks perfect, and it screamsLeigh.
“Well, I couldn’t have done it without you. You’re a great shopper.”
She takes a sip of hot cocoa and smiles at me. “Well, I learned it all from Sarah. Seriously, though, Leigh’s going to love this place.”
”Assuming I can get her to walk through the door.”
She elbows me in the ribs. “Don’t lose confidence on me now.” She pulls her phone out. “Come on, let’s take a picture. I wanna see your most charming asshole smile.”
We lean against each other and both put on our biggest smiles as she snaps the picture.
She puts her phone away and takes another sip of hot cocoa.
“How are you doing?” I ask.
“Me? I’ll be fine. This Aaron stuff—”
“That’s not what I mean.”
Her eyes flash to me, uncertainty filling them. “What—”
“You haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Since school started. Even before, when I saw you over the summer.”
Her eyes narrow and her jaw tightens as she looks out at the street. “I’m fine.”
“Convincing.”
She sighs and leans back, eyes softening. “I told you, a lot changed this summer.”
“Rae—”
“You’re a good friend, Nick, but I don’t want to talk about this. I’m okay. I’ll be okay. Promise.”
Still not convincing. Rae is one of the most vibrant people I know. She’s like me with her big emotions, but she also truly loves to have fun and enjoy life. She’s seemed darker lately. I hope whatever it is really will be okay.
“Anyway, here’s to growing up, Nicholas Asshole. You’re gonna be a good dad. Leigh’s a lucky girl.”
I tap my mug against hers and we sit back and watch the cars go by.
