Page 102 of I Hope This Finds You Well

I’m a liar,my brain reminds me.

“Now, kids,” Mom says, looking between us at each end of the table. “Our families have made very good friends in a short time, and we are both very proud you found each other.”

Armin and I smile, the unease cracking our grins.

“It’s fast because when you get older you know time is less,” she says. “It’s sad that Armin’s mom is sick, but she has a good idea.”

Armin’s mom nods. Her husband puts a supportive hand on her thin shoulder. “I know you don’t want to plan a party now, but I’m afraid I might not be around for the wedding if it takes too long.”

Crap. My chest tightens as Armin’s eyes flash toward me, his lips downturned.

My mom shakes her head, her expression overly sad.

His mom takes a big breath, struggling to speak at full volume. “Because I’m so sick, would you please have the party early? Maybe in two weeks?”

Armin’s eyes nearly pop out of his skull.

We absolutely can’t do this.

“Armin’s busy with tax season,” I start to say, at the same time he begins, “Jolene’s working for her promotion.”

Armin’s mom nods. It’s quiet and small, and what the hell am I doing to this lady?

I stare at Armin—he needs to be the one. But his face is too crushed.

“We can do it.” Armin smiles in my direction, his lips so stiff it looks painful. “Jolene’s just being conservative. She knows how much these things cost.” He squeezes his mom’s hand. “Please, Mom, you have to let me help with the expenses.”

“Good man,” my dad says.

But the cost is not what we should be focusing on. This can’tactuallyhappen!

Armin is looking absolutely everywhere except me.

When the bill arrives with all the mints, a wrestling match between the dads threatens to ensue. Armin snatches it away, insisting that his executive salary can cover the cost.

With the bill taken care of, Armin’s dad begins to help his wife out of her seat. My parents come around to help too, my dad pushing over the wheelchair and my mom making sure the Habibs have plenty of to-go containers with the extra sauces.

I slide into the empty chair next to Armin. Before I can speak, he says, “I know,I know. But she’s so happy.”

We both look toward our parents, who are now moving toward the door together, laughing at something Armin’s mom said.

Without really thinking, I say, “Is this really what she needs?”

My heartbeat picks up when Armin’s eyes lock on me. “What do you mean?”

And truthfully, I’m not exactly sure. I get what he’s doing. And I’m not exactly in a position to judge. But I shake my head, and it’s like I’mnot connected to my body. “I guess... I just think your mom loves you no matter what. Like, to her, you’re Carl. To my mom,I’m Carl. You know?”

“Fuck you.”

His laugh has a manic tinge. A wave of relief hits as the laughter pulls through me too.

He gets up. “Okay. Yeah, I get your point a little. Even though I could’ve lived without the Carl comparison.” He looks toward his mom again. “Just give me a little more time. I just want her to know I’m okay.”

I smile.

At least his lies are for someone else.

Extortion Portion