Nathan got ready with Daniel and the groomsmen.
At some point, Daniel texted me a photo.
It was Nathan in his suit.
Hair combed flat.
Dad’s cufflinks visible.
His face more serious than I had ever seen it.
Underneath, Daniel wrote, “He has asked what time it is 11 times.”
I replied, “Tell him I haven’t escaped.”
A minute later, Daniel replied, “He says good.”
When it was time, I stood in the little side room at the back of the church.
Nathan came in.
He stopped when he saw me.
For a second, neither of us said anything.
Then, Nathan said, “You look like Mom’s wedding picture.”
That destroyed me more effectively than any compliment could have.
“You look like Dad,” I said.
He touched one cufflink.
“I know.”
Music started outside.
