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“I think this is just lovely,” Mrs. M says lovingly.
A few others around our table take notice, but as they’re Harvey’s top employees, they say nothing, just look in awe.
The night runs smoothly, the animals are all being cared for by the foundation’s employees so we were able to eat dinner fur and fuss free.
I, myself, look up in awe as Harvey’s about to finish his speech on stage, until he announces he has one last thing to say. That’s when my name is mentioned. I freeze, eyes open wide and worry etched on my brows. I’m worried he’s going to say something that will impact this fundraiser, but what I hear is anything but admiration and bravery.
“Asher and Evelyn have been a prime example of a positiveFureverpartnership. When I first found Asher, I had him paired with someone else, however that partnership wasn’t fate. When Eve arrived at the FORT Center, this little guy,” I watch as Asher’s brought on stage, “was forever wandering and I couldn’t find the reason why; he is always loyal and never leaves my side. Then one day, not too long ago, I found him in with one of my employee’s patients, and I knew he was more than what I originally believed. He’s not only helped Evelyn, but she pointed out Asher was my guidance through the passing of my sister and brother-in-law, Josey’s mother and father, the founders of this foundation you’re all here to support tonight. Asher and Evelyn combined have helped me to see the bigger picture, because ladies and gentlemen, I had lost sight of that. I had lost sight of my sister’s dreams.
“It took someone whispering in my ear, then for me to take a step back and watch, to realize that I no longer need to be the man that holds it all together.” He turns to Josey—who has been on stage with Harvey this whole time—addressing her next. “I’ve made the decision to step down as the foundation’s director and proudly announce the new director taking my place—her rightful place—of theFurever Homes Guidance Shelterto be Josey Sanford. Josey, this is your legacy and I couldn’t think of a more deserving young woman. Congratulations, Josey. Your parents would be so proud.”
I push my chair back in haste, standing in ovation, tears streaming down my face as I acknowledge the amazing woman on stage about to make her mark in the world. I’m so proud of both Josey and Harvey for sharing this moment, together, in front of hundreds of people.
Harvey is still in an embrace with his niece, the attendees cheering for them loudly very much like I am; the women all teary-eyed and supportive—the gentlemen supporting their wives or partners.
As they break their embrace, I can see the mix of emotions running through Josey. She’s holding it together remarkably well for being blindsided only moments ago. When she told me of her ambitions for the FORT Center, I bet she never imagined becoming director of the very foundation her parents created. Now, I know both will thrive because she has the world to give.
The room starts to take their seats as Harvey wraps up his speech, so I take mine along with a big sip of the wine sitting in front of me. While I do, I keep my eyes trained on Harvey; something appears different. He’s smiling. For an unreadable man, he’s baring his emotion for all to see and I notice how the positive result of this decision has freed him.
Josey wheels to a stop in her place sitting next to me, shaking in her chair as the realization of what she was gifted takes effect. “Honey, congratulations!” I wrap my arms around her and let her rest her head on my shoulder, sobbing in no doubt excitement and loss. I look up to Harvey as he walks down the steps heading back to our table. His face shines with pride and I have to say, I’m inclined to think it’s because of the two of us in this embrace and what we represent in his life.
All around us, people commend him on his words and his decision. Others look on with gratification. Me; I feel a sense of jealousy amongst my pride. There’s much to desire from an event of this caliber that, suddenly, I’m feeling suffocated. The overwhelming feeling of being with people who know more about me than my own family or friends back home. Harvey doesn’t miss a beat either. He sees the exact moment my thoughts waver and I can’t do a damn thing to hide them from him.
With dinner being over and the same for the speeches, I excuse myself for the bathroom. As I walk awkwardly with my cane, I notice many eyes on me and for once I don’t want them. I know that’s contradictory but with the hurricane of thoughts and emotions, I don’t know what I want or where I belong.
Entering the ladies room, I reach the first available stall and lock myself inside. I’ve never had a problem with being in the public eye before so why on earth am I out of sorts now?
I hear the main door open followed by a familiar voice. “Evelyn?”
“Just a minute.” I try my hardest to center myself while pretending I’ve actually used the toilet. Somehow, I’m outsmarted.
“I know you’re hiding. Can you come out so we can talk? Please?”
My shoulders sag at the same time I sigh a breath of defeat. I don’t want to disappoint Josey. I can’t.
I unlock the door and pull it open slowly, like a child about to be reprimanded. The last thing I want to do is bring the mood down and ruin the most memorable day Josey has had in a long time.
Before I can form a single word, she beats me to the punch, and boy does it surprise me.
“You belong with us.”
I don’t know how to react because I’m already uncertain about my future. I can’t be sure that dancing won’t be back in my life and if it is, it’ll take me away from them. But if I stay, I won’t have dance.See; lost.
“Why did you really follow me, Josey?” I ask, biting my cheek, trying my hardest not to sound rude.
“Harvey was going to come after you, then I reminded him he’s a man, and men in ladies’ bathrooms is kind of frowned upon.” She chuckles. “I came after you becauseyou belong with us.Can you not see, Eve? You have glued our family back together. Two months ago, Harvey would never have given me the foundation, let alone let me help. I see the way he looks at you. You may think he’s hiding but he’s not with you. I’ve never seen him open up to anyone since Mom and Dad died. He’s been so closed off and today, he let himself free—for you. You cannot tell me you missed his proud smile in front of all of these people or the love he held in his voice at the mention of your name?
“Evelyn, my uncle is falling for you and I know you feel the same. We all see it. So, tell me, please. Why did you run away just now?”
I blink and blink again, words failing me.
“Listen, I don’t want you to feel like I’m…like we’re smothering you, but whatever is happening right now you need to get it under control. If not for my sake, then at the very least for Harvey’s. Don’t give him false hope, okay. I’ve only just got him back.”
I bow my head. I ask myself over and over, how the hell is Josey so wise?
She scares the heck out of me with her reply, “I’ve had good role models.”
“Shit, how do you both do that? Mind read? It always scares the living daylights out of me.”
