Page 125 of The Black Flamingo

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with my schoolwork. She stood by me

when I came out and became

a part of my family. The one

I could speak to about Rowan and Kieran.

I didn’t tell her everything,

but almost. And she wasn’t my girlfriend,

but almost.

LENNIE:HBD! Want a birthday spliff later?

MICHAEL:I forgot I told you it was my birthday.

I must’ve been high

LENNIE:

LENNIE:So?

MICHAEL:Thanks for remembering.

I just want to ignore this day

LENNIE:Want a non-birthday spliff instead?

MICHAEL:No

But thanks

I’ll see you tomorrow

LENNIE:

I pause when Daisy’s name

flashes on my phone screen.

I didn’t expect to hear from her.

We haven’t spoken since summer.

Why is Daisy calling me?

I guess to say, “Happy birthday!”

And, yes, that’s how she begins

and when I don’t say anything,

she continues, “I’m sorry.”

“What are you sorry for?” I ask.

“You know what for,” says Daisy.

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