Best Man

Close to the end of the night the friends found themselves in the center of the dance floor enjoying another slow song. When the song ended Michael and Leanne turned to look at Alex and Costas. Michael reached out his hand. “Come on.” Leanne stood a step behind and to the side of Michael, laughing and crying at the same time. “Mikey, it’s the last dance. Where’s Kara? You should dance with her.” “Right here.” Kara stepped next to Leanne. “And he has forever to dance with me.” She smiled at Alex where he stood close to Costas. “How about you and me Costas?” “And you and me?” Jeff put his arm around Leanne. Alex still just looked at Michael. The last dance. He clung to Costas’ hand. Costas squeezed back then let go and gave Alex a light push on the small of his back. Michael’s smile shimmered in Alex’s wet eyes as he stepped into those familiar arms. He looked into Michael’s eyes as they began to dance, vaguely registering the family’s voices around him. “Hey, Mikey.” He tried a smile. “Hey, Alex.” Michael’s voice shook a little and his own eyes were wet. He held Alex tightly as they danced and whispered in his ear, “ forever.”

Alex hesitated on the edge of his beach towel. He watched Michael and Leanne as the two began the preparations for the best sand castle ever; they were six. He wanted to join them but was afraid of being rebuffed. As he sat fidgeting, Michael came running up the beach to him. He stopped right in front of Alex and held out his hand. “Come on,” he said. Alex stood and took his hand. “I wasn’t sure if you wanted me to help.” Michael looked at him as they ran down to where Leanne waited. “I always want you to help; you’re my best friend. Forever.” He smiled at Alex.