Chapter 6

It all became a blur: ceremony, handshakes, kisses, small talk at a vast reception where I nursed a glass of champagne until it was flat. My parents, who didn’t approve of my “lifestyle” were cordial but distant, as were my two elderly aunts. I was seated at a table with complete strangers where I suffered thenot married question too many times, a couple girls’ eyes brightening at the prospect. I danced with them and once with Leslie, who mercifully didn’t ask about Raymond. His absence was comment enough and when the dance ended I thanked her, wished her a great life, and fled. I didn’t cry until I was back down in the flatlands.