For some reason, I was surprised by this photograph. I remember when she took it. She came up from behind and hugged me. When I turned around she took the picture.

In the picture, my hair is in a sloppy sort of bun.The bright lights on the ceiling are reflected on my bright-blue framed glasses. I was clutching a bunch of books in my arms that I had been about to put in my locker, and I was kind of sagging under their weight. I put my hand on that one, and smiled at Audrey.

“Wow, thanks.” She noticed my hand. “Hey! You saw that! I really hope you don’t mind me putting that up, I really love it.”

“No, I don’t mind. But, why do you love it so much? It’s just me, not looking my best either.” I started to point out the flaws, but she stopped me.

“No, you look wonderful. Look at your face.”

I looked. I guess I could see. My cheeks were flushed. My smile was genuine, you could see it in my eyes. I was really happy to see her. I realized why this picture startled me, why Audrey loves it. I’m happy.