“To… what should we toast to?” “What else? To the happy couple.” Without looking at me, Laurel said, “How are you doing?” “Good,” I said. “Great.” “Come on. This is your Laura you’re talking to. Tell me. How are you feeling?” “Honestly?” I swigged my beer. “It’s pretty much killing me.” Laurel looked back at me, her face tender. “I’m sorry. I know you love her a lot, kid. This must be really hard on you.” I could feel my throat starting to close up. I tried to clear it, unsuccessfully. I could feel it coming up in my chest, behind my eyes. I was going to cry in front of her. It was the way she
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