Wild Card

by Elsie Silver

“Tabby, I think it’s beautiful. How could a healthy kidney be anything but?” she gushes in her typical Gwen way. I swear she can find beauty in anything. “See?” Tabitha pokes Rhys. “Gwen thinks my kidney cake is beautiful.” I shake my head and look back toward West, who is watching me, eyes lit up like a kid on Christmas. “So? Do you like it?” I roll my lips together, trying to keep from laughing. “You’re an idiot, Weston.” He brightens further. “Calling me an idiot is your love language, so I will take it. I love you too, man. Stay safe tomorrow.” Then, glancing around the table, he lifts his champagne glass and waits for everyone to follow suit. “Here’s to Bash and his kidney,” he says as everyone raises their glasses. “You just might be the most thoughtful asshole I know. Cheers, to you and that big soft black heart of yours! And to Crazy Clyde!”