Not only that, but Rone enrolled in GED classes so he can register for community college eventually. Miracle number two. Dre traded his old friend Colt for slightly less alcoholic coolers. Baby steps, and still miracle number three. Dad worked long hours at the welding shop to retrieve the rent money he gambled, which saved the family from eviction. Thinking about someone other than himself, miracle number four. My forgiveness—the fifth and final miracle. Every forgiveness, the choice to let go, is a miracle of grace we bestow upon one another for being human and eternally flawed.

“Negro Brown, you’re awfully quiet. Are you OK?” Keli asks.

“Yea, just reflecting on the semester and the fact that we actually all did it. I’m so proud of you guys. I couldn’t have done it without you. Every winner needs a strong crew. I love y’all like family.”

Earnell dabs his eyes with a napkin.

“Earnell?! Are you crying?” I ask, shocked.

“What?! No! I think it’s just windy in here. Something blew into my eye.”

“But there is no wind and all the windows are closed because it’s the middle of winter.”

“Leave him alone, Keli!” Gabby shouts while putting a caring hand on Earnell’s shoulders. “It’s OK, my friend. We, and by we, I mean us and the ancestors of past and present, accept and support your feelings. They, too, remember the joy of a Grand Slam with extra bacon,” which is what we’ve all ordered.

“See, there you go again,” Earnell replies. “Ruining the moment. I’m proud of you guys too. Y’all my road dogs.”

Earnell smiles, then places his hand over mine, which is resting on the table. He leaves it there for longer than a friend should, just like his hand on my thigh outside the student center. Gabby, Keli, and I all stare in silent, but knowing, surprise.

Snow falls on the white pine trees outside the tightly shut windows. Still no wind to speak of, but Earnell has cried three times tonight and again grabbed the hand of the girl he has liked since the beginning. Finally making his feelings known.

I ride off into the new year, basking in the glory of friendship, miracles, and A-pluses.

CHAPTER TWENTY