Michael’s larger-than-life presence always took over entire rooms, commanding the attention of everyone there. Standing on the sidewalk outside of Perly’s, he seemed like the only person there despite people maneuvering around him. I tripped when we finally were face-to-face, and for a second I thought I’d end up on the ground. Instead, Michael caught me by the shoulders with a laugh.
“Thanks for coming.” Michael grinned, then instead of sticking his hand out to shake mine, he pulled me into an embrace. The feel of his warm muscular body pressed so close shocked me, and I was transported back to those long afternoons we’d spent in his bedroom after school. Michael’s arms tightened; this was no quick hug between friends. The urge to melt into his enormous arms was overwhelming, but I knew
