Jake and I had a standing appointment. It was a college ritual, established to catch up and brag about our weekend escapades. Fate had a way of pulling us apart as we explored parties, women, and adventure. On Monday, we always met at our favorite coffee shop.
I was excited this morning. My latest exploit marked a huge event, one we had discussed at length. While I planned, Jake told me every reason he thought I was crazy. I wouldn’t listen. Sophie, the love of my life, and I were going to Lion’s Bay for a once in a lifetime trip. I prepared a romantic picnic, a proposal, and a celebratory cliff jump when she agreed. I left nothing to chance.
Jake looked like he arrived hours ago. Sitting in his usual spot, he seemed tired and somehow older than I had ever seen him before.
He glanced up at me and turned deathly pale.
“Jake don’t look so worried. It was fabulous. She said ‘yes.’ We’re getting married.”
His eyes widened, and he rubbed his hand across his face, before he stared at me again.
“I see she didn’t overstate the issue,” he muttered then took a big swig from his cup.
“What issue? Didn’t you hear me? I’m the happiest man on the planet. It was the greatest day of my life.”
“It was the last too.”
“What are you talking about?”
“Will you listen to me? We were best friends.”
“Were?”
“Buddy, we buried you years ago.”
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Keep on writing.
Jo Hawk The Writer