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“I’m sorry to hear that. I didn’t mean to ask such a personal question.”
“No. No. Don’t be sorry, Cathy,” I assure her, wiping the corner of my lips with my napkin. “It’s really just my mom. Unfortunately, she lives in Vermont. It’s hard for her to get down here to help other than over the phone because she works a lot and struggles financially.”
Cathy tips her head in agreement as she sips on her wine. “I can understand that. My offer still stands. I’d love to help you with the planning of anything you could possibly need. I know how stressful a lot of brides find planning the actual day.”
“I really appreciate that. By the way,” I say, making an effort to change the subject and get the spotlight off of us. “This dinner is absolutely delicious. My God.”
“Isn’t it? My mom used to make this for me all the time as a kid, and I’ve continued to make it for years and years. It’s a once-a-week staple in this house.”
“I can see why.” I laugh.
The dinner topic changes to small talk about living in the city. Bill asked me a few questions about living in Vermont and how I liked living down here. It was very refreshing to talk about something other than a fake wedding that we’re planning.
When dinner is done, Cathy rises from the table and grabs a few empty plates.
“Here, let me help you,” I offer.
I grab the few plates she didn’t and make my way over to the sink. Cathy starts to clean the dishes, but I jump in and offer while she gets dessert ready.
Marc jumps in next to me, and we begin the process with me washing and him drying.
“You two don’t have to do that,” Cathy starts. “You are guests here.”
“My mom always taught me that if someone is going to invite you over for dinner and feed you a delicious meal.” I smile as I scrub the plate. “The least you can do is help clean up the dishes.”
“It’s not necessary at all.” Cathy laughs. “But it's greatly appreciated. I’m going to warm up this apple crisp.”
Marc and I continue our mini assembly line. His arm gently brushes against mine with each pass of a dish. No words are spoken between us. In fact, Marc has been a little too quiet tonight.
My curious thoughts wonder if he’s alright. If I’m playing along well enough.
As if he could sense my thoughts he whispers, “You’re doing great, Avery.”
“Right back at you, boss man.” I blush.
We finish the dishes and I excuse myself for a quick bathroom break. Then I open my phone to see the group chat from the girls.
Peyton
We just got to the shore house. How’s it going, Avery?
Kali
Curious minds want to know.
Peyton
Keep your panties on tonight.
Avoid any closets and bathrooms tonight.
Kali
Or don’t…
Peyton
Kali, don’t egg her on. It will start to make things weird.
