Chapter 5: The Autism Banquet
The next day, I met up with some of my other best friends Alex Russo, Justin Evans, Max Greenwald, Carly Shay, and Spencer Puckett, as well as Carly's stepdad, Freddie Benson, at the Sixth Presbyterian Church in Squirrel Hill for the annual autism banquet. "Hi, guys!" I greeted my friends. "Hi, Angel!" Alex greeted back. For dinner, there was salad, stuffed shells, sliced roast beef, chicken tenders, redskin potatoes, green beans almandine, and cake for dessert. "This banquet almost reminds me of when my mom and stepdad got married," Carly glumly stated. "Aren't you enjoying living with Angel and her other friends, Carly?" Mr. Benson asked. "I am," Carly stated. "But, I still miss my mom like crazy and she doesn't even live here anymore." "You'll get used to it, Carly," Spencer assured. "It is absolutely natural." "I am a natural at attending banquets," Alex proudly stated. "You are just lucky to come from such a proper group of friends, Alex," Max pointed out. "This has always been a reward for us excelling at school, particularly the one week where we had to study for our SAT tests," Justin stated. "Don't you remember, Alex?" "Absolutely," Alex replied, smiling. "And, I am a pro at good manners, too." After dinner, we got to sing and dance to all of our favorite songs by NSYNC and 98 Degrees. Once the banquet was over, it was time for all of us to leave. "Thanks for a great day, everyone!" I thanked my friends. "You're welcome, Angel," Alex replied. "Good night, guys!" "Good night!"