Chapter 15: Best Bestie

It was hours before Wedge showed signs of life. He looked around and said, “Roxie?”

“How are you feeling?” she said as she appeared at his side.

Wedge propped himself up on his elbows. “Not bad, considering.”

“You’ve eaten nothing but aspirin and Tylenol for the past twenty-four hours, something should feel better,” said Roxie.

“I’m so sorry for acting the fool,” said Wedge, his green eyes meeting hers, “if bestie is what you want then I will stop trying to break out of the friend zone and be the best bestie you ever had.”

“Stop,” she said as she leaned forward and touched her forehead to his. “You feel like you want to be more to me than a bestie. I feel the same way ... but I have a history, and right now you are doing a great job getting me past that. Now come on, go take a shower while I get dinner ready.”

“Why am I naked?”

“The last time you puked your aim wasn’t very good...”

“I’m sorry,” said Wedge as he headed into the shower. Roxie had his griddle fired up and grilled two luscious pork chops and put a couple of potatoes in the microwave to cook. She put a salad on the small round table and lit the candle as Wedge emerged from the shower and pulled on a pair of green sweatpants and a red t-shirt under Roxie’s watchful eye. As he pulled the pants up, he said, “You’ve seen mine ... when can I see yours?”

“If I had a dick, I’d show it to you. Come sit down.” She had put some Christmas music on his stereo and made a Christmas centerpiece on his table with some garland and faux pine. A red candle provided the only light as he sat down to a salad, pork chop, and baked potato.

“You made all this for me?” Wedge hasn’t had a home cooked meal in ages.

“Shh ... quiet. Eat. You haven’t eaten since the rubber chicken at the O Club.” Roxie watched with pride as Wedge dug into the simple meal she made for him.

“This is incredible. Thank you so much,” said Wedge between mouthfuls.

“You look like you’re feeling better ... I’m sorry about Roopy ... I just found out.”

“It’s not your fault, it was that fucking lieutenant.”

“Dear, please,” begged Roxie, “I know you’re angry, don’t let that hate burn you up.”

“He’s so fucking stupid,” muttered Wedge. “sorry, I didn’t mean to mess up your wonderful dinner mentioning him.” He took a bite of his chop and chewed thoughtfully, then brightened, “you called me dear. Is that allowed inside the friend zone?”

“Please don’t take it so hard, give me a few more weeks. I ... I was...”