Chapter 2: The Autism Banquet
The next day, I met some of my other friends Alex Russo, Justin Evans, Max Greenwald, and Carly Shay, as well as Carly's parents, Sam and Freddie, at the Sixth Presbyterian Church in Squirrel Hill for the annual autism banquet. "Hi, guys!" I greeted my friends. "Hi, Angel!" Alex greeted back. "You girls are both dressed very nicely," I told Carly and Alex. "I also remember those exact same outfits from your birthday celebration earlier this month." "Thanks, Angel," Carly replied. "I like pink and Alex likes purple." "Those are both very nice colors," I agree. "I like sandals with a heel and Carly likes flat sandals," Alex told me. "How could you girls have different styles but still like each other?" I asked. "That can happen, Angel," Carly stated. "Sarah is also still good friends with Alex, despite not having the same exact style as her." "Alex, it feels like you have only 2 things in common with Sarah, and they are your leadership skills and your adventurous mood," I pointed out. "Well, Sarah and I are both very smart ladies who look out for you guys, and we both love to go to adventurous places, like amusement parks," Alex stated. "This is making me excited for both Sandcastle and Kennywood," I agreed. Pretty soon, it was time for dinner. On the menu was stuffed chicken breast, sliced roast beef with mushroom gravy, pasta with marinara and alfredo sauces, roasted seasoned redskin potatoes, green beans almandine, tossed cobb salad, rolls with butter, and cake for dessert. "This would also be good brunch food to serve," Mrs. Shay stated. "Sort of like the brunch that we took Carly to one year to help her get ready for her test," Mr. Benson agreed. "Where was this at?" I asked. "I forget." "Brackenridge Heights Country Club," Carly replied. "Speaking of special occasions, we should have had a banquet like this year after our Christmas concert," Alex added. "Especially since we practiced so hard for that concert," Justin agreed. "Is there any entertainment tonight?" Max asked. "You know, just so we can relive the memories of our concert?" "Yeah, do you have plans to perform anything, Alex?" Justin asked. "Yes, I am going to play Shawn Mendes's new single 'If I Can't Have You' on the piano," Alex replied. "And, I am going to sing along to the song," Carly added. "My band, Angel Kitty is also going to promote our new album, Summer Fun with our latest single 'Let the Games Begin'," I told everyone. After the meal, I performed "Let the Games Begin" with my band and Carly sang along to "If I Can't Have You" while Alex accompanied her on piano and backup vocals. I thought it was a pretty good performance. After the entertainment was done, it was time for me to leave. "Thanks for a great day, everyone!" I thanked my friends. "You're welcome, Angel," Alex replied. "Bye, guys!" "Bye!"