The hallway had gone quiet, the late-bell stragglers already gone. Thomas was at his locker, sliding folders into place, when Jonathan appeared at his side.

  “My dad asked me to give you this,” Jonathan said, holding out a small, cream-colored envelope. “Before the weekend.”

  Thomas took it. The paper felt heavier than normal, and when he turned it over he saw the back was closed with a coin of deep-red wax. In the center: the faint outline of a menorah.

  “Do you know what it says?” he asked.

  Jonathan lifted one shoulder. “Pretty sure it’s from Eric. He’s been pulling doubles all week so he can be off Saturday. Wanted you to have it anyway.”

  You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

  Thomas broke the seal with his thumb. The wax cracked cleanly, like it had been waiting for him. He unfolded the single sheet.

  Dear Thomas,

  We’ll be at your place around 12 p.m. on Saturday to pick you up. Come back to the house first—we want, Wendy and I, would like to help you get ready. We’re heading to the venue a little early to make sure everything is set.

  Looking forward to seeing you.

  Sincerely, Eric & Wendy

  He read it twice. The second time, the words settled somewhere behind his ribs, warm and steady.

  “Here,” he said, offering the note to Jonathan.

  Jonathan skimmed it, grinned, and handed it back. “I’m really looking forward to seeing you there, man. Any questions at all—just ask.”

  Thomas folded the letter along its original creases, careful, like it might bruise. “Thanks. I… wasn’t sure what any of this was going to feel like. This helps.”

  Jonathan bumped his shoulder, gentle. “You’re not doing it alone. We’ve got you.”

  Thomas slipped the note into the inner pocket of his blazer—the one closest to his heart—and for the first time all week, he smiled like he meant it.