One Golden Summer

by Carley Fortune

I’ve pictured long walks and sunrises, midafternoon swims and cozy nights with a book. I’ve imagined peace and rest and catching up on work.

“Good things happen at the lake,” I finish. She nods once. “Good things happen at the lake.”

One Golden Summer.

Red,”

“Do. Not. Call. Me. That.”

“Well done, Red.”

City Girl,

“I’m turning thirty-three tomorrow. You’d think I’d be a little braver.” “I think the older we get, the scarier shit becomes.”

“But the thing about love languages,” Charlie says, “is it’s not just about how we express love, but how we receive love. You need someone to do something for you that makes you feel loved. Someone to help you.” I shake my head. “I hate asking for help.”

“That’s because deep down, you want someone to see what you need before you have to ask.”

“No, it’s because when you speak, he listens. When you smile, he smiles. When you need something, he offers help. When you give him something, he thanks you. You’re peas and carrots—I think you’ve found yourself a lifelong friend.”

“Just see where the sun takes you. And don’t forget: Good things happen at the lake.”