Mel found the two of us spreading out lunch fixings out on a picnic table in the gazebo. She gave me a quick hug and then she turned to greet a blushing Hannah.
“You remember me, don’t you?” Mel held out her hand to Hannah but when she took it, rather than shake hands with her, Mel pulled her in for a quick hug too. “It’s good to see you and I’m glad to hear that you’re making your transition well.” She stood off from her a bit and looked her up and down, “You look good and you look happy. I’m happy for you.” Hannah grinned at Mel and I beamed. I thought she’d handled that well...not nearly as I had expected she might handle it but certainly well, all the same.
Hannah said, “Thank you...uh...I’m so sorry, I don’t know what to call you.”
“Everyone calls me Mel.”
“Shouldn’t I call you Sh
