Our Friend

In 2000, Matt, a journalist, and Nicole, a theater performer, live in New Orleans and are introduced to Dane, a camera operator who dreams of stand-up. The three become close friends as their lives intertwine over the years. This foundation sets the stage for the support system that defines the rest of the story.

By 2008, Matt and Nicole are living in Fairhope with their daughters while Dane remains in New Orleans. On Thanksgiving, Dane undertakes a solo backpacking trip to the Grand Canyon, where a backpacker expresses concern about his suicidal mood. An unexpected Teague family voicemail arrives, giving him renewed purpose and a reason to keep living.

In 2010, Matt learns that Nicole had an affair. With Dane's support, Matt and Nicole work toward reconciliation, and Dane returns home. He also begins dating Kat, shaping his life alongside the Teague family.

In September 2012, Nicole is diagnosed with ovarian cancer and begins chemotherapy. Dane offers to stay with the Teagues for a few weeks, but his presence grows into months as he takes on many household duties. Kat struggles to understand his loyalty, and they break up.

On Christmas, Nicole ruptures her abdomen; after surgery the doctor reveals the cancer has spread and Nicole has about six months to live. The illness deepens, leaving the family to confront the impending loss together. Dane remains a steadfast presence in the home.

Nicole crafts a bucket list that Matt and Dane help her complete, aiming to savor meaningful moments. Items include Grand Marshal duty at Mardi Gras, swimming in a historic fountain, and writing letters to her daughters for future life events. The work of fulfilling her wishes anchors the family through mounting fear and fading health.

As 2013 ends and Nicole's health deteriorates, the family decides to tell Molly and Evie about their mother's condition. Dane listens from the sidelines as the girls cry, sharing a painful but necessary moment of honesty. The revelation cements the emotional weight of Nicole's prognosis.

In the summer of 2014, Nicole grows more irritable and in pain, prompting Matt to feel overwhelmed. Dane takes him hiking to clear their minds, and upon returning they realize the Teague family needs professional end-of-life care. A hospice nurse, Faith Pruett, is brought in, and Nicole passes away at home after a final sunrise at the beach with Matt and Dane nearby.

Following Nicole's funeral, Dane retreats to his room and grieves alone, while Matt writes an article called 'The Friend' and shares it with Dane. The piece crystallizes the bond between them and helps Dane decide to finally make a life beyond the Teague household. After fourteen months, he chooses to return home to his own life.

Matt's article 'The Friend' is published and later earns an Esquire magazine award, recognizing the compelling real-life portrait of friendship. The Teague daughters remain rooted in Fairhope, and Dane stays a steadfast, ongoing presence in their lives. The story closes with a note of enduring devotion.

Dane continues to be closely connected to the Teague family and eventually marries in 2019, embracing a new chapter while honoring the bond that formed during Nicole's illness. The family remains in Fairhope, continuing to navigate life together.