Page 102 of Embers in the Dark

“Because I know River and he’s up to something,” Clay says.

“Oh, fuck.” Kennedy puts her head in her hands.

“What’s the big deal?” I ask. “Did he make the dessert or something?”

“No, it’s not that,” Kennedy starts.

“What am I missing?” Abby finally asks. “Is someone allergic to something?” She’s looking around the table and then something clicks. “Ohno.” Her eyes go wide.

“What the fuck is going on?” I ask, throwing my arms up.

“He wouldn’t,” Clay says.

“You know he would,” Kennedy deadpans.

“Now you guys are scaring me,” Baylee says.

“It’s nothing to be scared of. Just promise to continue to be friends with us after this if our assumptions are correct. Okay?” Abby says.

“Ookayy,” Baylee says.

“No, seriously, you have to promise,” Kennedy says.

“Do you want me to sign something?” Baylee asks.

“That’s not a bad idea. Do we have time for a notary? Better yet, anyone here a notary?” Kennedy asks.

I look over at Hunter and he’s got a smirk on his face because this is amusing for someone that has no idea what’s going on. Not that I know what’s going on either. We probably look like absolute clowns.

Finally, River makes his way over with the dessert. It’s still covered with only the top exposed. But we’re still unable to see it, because he’s blocking it and we can’t see anything yet.

“Alright. So, before I show you what I got done for you, I just want to say that we love you both very much. Well, I should say—Baylee, we love you. Malloy, we’re just happy you found someone we love so much more than you.” There are laughs and I just nod.

“We hope you find forgiveness on those days where you disagree and find light on the days when the dark is finding ways in. But most of all, always find ways to laugh. Find ways to let love in through all corners. And always remember you have great friends to share your memories with. We love you,” he says.

What a true friend. That’s such a kind thing to say. He’s truly an amazing person and we’re lucky to have him. I don’t know what we did to find an amazing support system around us and he’s become our ringleader. Our center that has his goofy moments, but has a heart of gold.

He puts the dessert in the middle of the table and for a second we’re all smiling. Then the image sinks in.

The words written on the cake are perfectly fine: Congratulations Baylee and Malloy!

Kennedy has her face in her hands. Abby’s holding back a laugh. Clay is looking at his brother, trying not to murder him with his eyes. Baylee looks over at me, her mouth agape. Of course, River’s completely proud of himself.

Hunter looks at each of us and finally says, “I have no ideahow I ended up with such a fucked up group of friends who watch reality dating shows and celebrate a wedding with a cake that’s decorated with what looks like a dick purse in the center. But hey, who am I to judge? Congrats Baylee and Malloy.”

The End

Hunter

Spring is finally here and I’m gliding through traffic on my motorcycle to the station. This past winter was brutal, which was to be expected. I knew it would be, but I missed my bike. It’s been nice to have her out to ride lately, now that the weather’s been more compliant.

I reach the station and park alongside some of the crew. Taking off my helmet, I’m met by Malloy walking in.

“Well, good morning, Mr. Baylee.” I snicker.

“Good morning. You just love calling me that, huh?” He laughs.

“I do. You’re smitten,” I tell him.

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