Roses That Came Too Late

Summary

At our college reunion, Johnny got drunk during Truth or Dare. Laughing carelessly, he announced he had never loved me, only Ava. He raised his glass, eyes bright. “She’s finally divorced. This time, I’m not letting her go.”

The room fell silent. Next round, he drew a dare: confess to the one he loved. Without hesitation, he called Ava, voice softening into a murmur I hadn’t heard in years. “Ava, I miss you. Can we start over?”

I lowered my head, chest tight. Awkward laughter rippled around the table. Sarah squeezed my shoulder. “Johnny is wasted. Don’t take it personally.