The Tophat
The sweat snuck down the back of my neck as I stood by the graveside. The sun was getting higher and hotter as I stood there worrying the brim of the well-worn tophat.
The hat belonged to my uncle. His name was Sebastian and he lived life on his own terms. He didn’t pay any attention to whether or not people liked him or if they laughed. He was too busy traveling life with his family and friends. His family loved him. I loved him especially.
He was my favorite uncle. He would have done anything for me, and I would do anything for him. Well, I thought I would. He wanted me to do the one thing I wasn’t sure I could do.
He wanted me to get married.
I had only had two dates in my 24 years. Girls terrified me. I had difficulty talking to them. They were an enigma to me. They were mythical creatures. They were akin to unicorns, beautiful, and magical.
How could I get up the nerve to speak to a unicorn? The two dates I had gone on were set up for me by my best friend. I was on the edge of panic both times, and I couldn’t call them back. It was just too much.
“I’m sorry, Uncle Sebastian. I know your last wish was for me to marry and start a family, but I just don’t think I can do it.”
I walked toward my car and saw a beautiful woman walking toward Uncle Sebastian’s grave carrying flowers.
“Is that Sebastian’s hat?”
“Y-yes, it was. He left it to me.”
“Who are you?
“I’m his nephew.”
She emitted a melodic giggle and asked, “Did your parents give you a name?”
I blushed and answered, “B-Brian.”
“You’re the infamous Brian? It’s nice to meet you.”
She held out her hand to shake mine. Blushing more deeply, I shook it.
“I’ve been meaning to call you,” she said.
The surprise must have been obvious on my face.
“Sebastian gave me your number at the shelter where we served lunches. He said I should meet you, that you’re a great guy. I knew he wouldn’t steer me wrong, but he didn’t tell me how cute you are.”
I didn’t think it was possible to blush more, but I was wrong. Anxiety sweat was sneaking down my back, but I was able to remember my manners and smile my thanks.
“What do you say about going to a movie Friday night? That is if you don’t have a girlfriend…”
“I don’t. I would like that…”
“I will call you, and we will set up a time.”
I had almost a week to wait, but I was determined not to back out. Uncle Sebastian had set me up from beyond the grave, and I would honor him.