One Summers Day

Max

The kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies.  I was in my element, humming a tune as I measured out the ingredients and mixed the dough.  My movements were fluid and graceful, as if I had done this a million times before.  I was completely focused my eyes fixed on the task at hand.  

As I worked my face was illuminated by a smile that seemed to light up the entire room.  I was in my happy place and it showed.

As the cookies baked in the oven, my excitement grew.  I couldn't wait to see the finished product, and my anticipation was palpable.  The the timer went off, I rushed to the oven, my eyes wide with excitement.  I carefully removed the ray of cookies and set them on the counter to cool.

After I picked up the piping bag filled with blue icing and began to decorate the freshly baked cookies.  Each swirl was a work of art, and I took my time to make sure that each cookie was perfect.

As I worked, the scent of vanilla and sugar filling the air, and I felt a sense of satisfaction.  I was creating something beautiful and delicious.

When I finished, I stepped back to admire my handiwork.  The cookies were a sight to behold.  Each one unique and beautiful.  I couldn't wait to share them at the party later tonight, then my mind went back to the party, do I have to go?  Ethan was going to be here any moment.  I can't just tell him to leave.  Or maybe I can?  No, that's rude.

As I tasted one of he cookies I smiled with delight.  The combination of the soft, chewy cookie and the sweet, creamy icing was perfection.  I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I had created something truly special.  

It took all my willpower to not eat another cookie was I put them all in a plastic container and set it to the side.  Right next to the of the door so I wouldn't forget.  As I went back to the kitchen to clean up, then I heard a knock at the door.

I went to open the door and saw my friend Ethan.  He looked up and down and saw the absolute mess I was.  Frosting and batter splattered all around my clothes.

"Um, is this a bad time?" Ethan asked unsure.

"No, no.  I just finished baking.  Here come in." I opened the door wider to let him in.

"I swear every time I come over you are baking." Ethan said as he took his Jordans off.

"Well, every time you come over it's for a party." I responded.

"Well do you have to bake every time we have a party?  I swear you'll go to a party where everyone gets black out drunk and fucks around, and you'll bring some cute little cupcakes." 

I went to the side of the door and picked the plastic container up.  I turned it around and showed it to Ethan.

"Sure, but look how good these look." I enthused.

"Sure.  Anyway I swear Maddie is always throwing a party or attending one, her poor liver." Ethan said changing the subject.

"I know.  I attend a party once in a decade." I joked.

Ethan let out a small snort.  I started putting all the bowls and utensils in the washing machine, giving them a little rinse before.  Ethan started to help out and wiped some of the flower off the floor.  After a half an hour the kitchen looked almost spotless.

"Alright, so what do you plan on wearing?" Ethan asked.

"Uhhh haven't thought about it." I responded honestly.

"Commonnn, you've been single forever, it's time to get off your ass." 

I shrugged my shoulders.  Ethan went in my room and started searching.  My room isn't neccesarily the cleanest.  Clothes lay askew on the floor, the floor desperately needed a vaccum. The nightstand next to my bed was drowning in classes and water bottles.  When Ethan entered may room he gave me a sympathetic look.

"You have not been doing good, have you?" Ethan said.

I nodded my head ashamed.

"Its hard to clean, or even get up anymore.  The only thing that helps me forget is baking.  I know that sounds stupid but still." I vented.

"You should have told me.  I am totally here for you man.  Whatever you need, just call me and I'll help ok?" Ethan said.

I nodded my head and smiled.  I was so lucky to have a friend like Ethan.  He made me believe that maybe this wasn't so bad.

"Ok!  Now lets decide your outfit!" Ethan exclaimed trying to cheer me up.

He went in my closet and started searching.  He finally settled on some clothes and brought them up to show me.  A pair of jorts, an oversized blue shirt, and a pair of dirty old converse.

"This seems appropriate.  Maddie says its a chill hangout, but knowing her it could be a few people or a few thousand.  So look presentable just in case." Ethan stated.

"Yeah thats a pretty beach outfit." I responded.  Maybe this party won't be so bad.  I need this.

I put on the clothes and I didn't look half bad.  I don't think I have worn normal clothes for weeks now, let alone go outside.  Its been so hard after...after.  Thinking of it brought pain to my mind so I quickly thought of something else.

"So should we head out." I asked quickly tying up my laces.

"Sure, maybe we can get a soda on the way." Ethan said as he pulled his keys out and started walking toward the car.

Me and Ethan stopped at the gas station and quickly got a drink.  After about twenty minutes of driving we made it.  It was a beach party.  A small group of people were gathered around, I looked for Maddie but couldn't find her.  Late to her own party?  Such a Maddie thing to do.

"Alright lets go." Ethan said as he shut off the car and went out.

I hesitantly went out.  The only way to get better was to get myself out of my comfort zone.  Maybe I could meet someone new?