Chapter 21

We moved slowly to a table in the middle of the wall at the other end of the hall, those we passed all bowed their heads. Turning my head I noticed that after we had gone by most of them raised their noses and scented the air. Realizing everyone we walked past knew what Joel and I had just done upstairs was really embarrassing. I was blushing deeply by the time we reached our table.

The conversation at our table was pleasant. Nate was there with Shawna as were several other couples. Joel spoke quietly in my ear and reassured me throughout the meal.

Looking up during the dinner I saw a familiar face and gasped. Lucas was sitting 3 tables away devouring everything on his plate. His table was particularly full of people and they all seemed really happy. Lucas himself was shaved and wearing a matching outfit. I tugged at Joel's arm and looked in that direction, hoping he would get the mental question.

"He's doing much better," he answered me. "