The Nature of True Friends (1st Place)

Word Count: 295

“This isn’t the way … I didn’t plan on this, you know, Julian.”

“Yeah, well, we’re seldom given choices in life, Ben. I only wish there was something more I could do, I mean --”

“Listen, I know you have better things to do with your time than sitting here with me, but I’m … I’m happy you came, though.”

“I don’t want to hear such sniveling crap, Ben. I’m here now and that’s all that counts. Even though I haven’t heard from you in over a month and you never returned any of my phone calls … You could have given me a heads up or something. I mean … how long have we known each other?”

“Do you want the exact years … or … Okay, okay, I know … but it’s not like we don’t have the time now.”

“So why didn’t you tell me what was going on? I would have been on the next flight here – you know that.”

“And that’s exactly why I didn’t tell you. I know you so well, Julian, that you would have spent all your time here with me.”

“But that’s what friends are for. Jesus, Ben! After all these years, don’t you know me any better than that?”

“See, already you’re spouting off. I’ve … I’ve missed that in you and … I’m glad you came today.”

“Me too, but I hate seeing you like this. Is there anything I can do? Hey, wait a minute …why is today so important?”

“Because by tomorrow … this virus is going to kill me and … and I just wanted to say … goodbye … and to tell you … thanks for being such a great friend.”