- 22.
A terminally ill mother figure, a childhood friend
spiraling out of control… the decision wasn’t
that difficult. I called Ashton. I could hear the
relief in his voice when he answered. “I was
going to come get you, but things got…
complicated.” I cut him off. “I heard. Ashton,
please stop. I want you both to be okay. Your
friendship with Ethan shouldn’t be ruined
- ))
44
く
because of me.” “And… the reason I called…
I’m getting married.” He paused. “To who?” His
voice was hoarse. I told him about Alex. “We grew up together, went to the same college. He’s a good guy, treats me well.” Thinking about the quiet days with Alex, I realized a peaceful, respectful marriage wasn’t such a bad thing. The next morning, Alex had already made breakfast. “I’ll go with you to see your mom today,” I said. He put a pancake on my plate, a gentle “Okay.” I pulled out a chair. “And we can talk to them about the wedding.” The
pancake he was about to put on his own plate clattered to the table.
