Callan smiled, his green eyes reflecting the city’s lights. “Aye, lass. With you by my side, I’m ready for anything.”
They’d campedoutside the city and in the morning woke early to get on the road for the two-hour drive to Philadelphia and Zara. She couldn’t wait to see her friend.
They chatted and listened to music, sharing stories and laughter as the miles flew by. Callan’s curiosity about the world around him was never-ending, and Daisy found herself enjoying the role of tour guide.
By mid-morning, they arrived in Philadelphia. She loved the cobblestone streets and architecture, and made sure to point out Independence Hall. “Home of the Liberty Bell and some of the best cheesesteaks you’ll ever have.”
Callan’s eyes lit up. “I like cheese and I like steak. Where are we headed first?”
“We’ll meet up with Zara at her apartment for lunch and don’t worry, we’ll get cheesesteaks for dinner,” Daisy replied.
“She’s excited to meet you.”
Zara’s apartment was in a charming old building with ivy-covered walls and a cozy, welcoming vibe. They parked the van and made their way up the stairs, Frankie trotting alongside them.
Her best friend greeted them with a warm smile and a hug for Daisy.
“Hey, you two! Come on in. I’ve got lunch ready.” She leaned down to ruffle the dog’s ears. “Don’t worry, I’ve got chicken for you.”
Callan inclined his head. “A pleasure to meet you, mistress. Daisy speaks very highly of you.”
“Well, isn’t that an accent to die for.” Zara took his hand, an appraising look in her eyes. “She’s been sending me pictures from all your stops.”
They settled in the living room, enjoying salads and fruit. Greens and vegetables were a welcome change after all the junk and road trip food.
Daisy looked around. “The light is fantastic in here.” Her friend had eclectic taste, and the apartment was bright and welcoming, just like her.
As they ate, the conversation flowed easily. Zara was charming and witty, and Callan’s old-world manners and stories, not to mention his to-die-for accent totally charmed her best friend.
“So, Callan,” Zara said, leaning forward with a mischievous smile, “Daisy tells me you’re from the 14th century. I’ve never met a time-traveler before.”
He looked at Daisy, a brow arched, but she kept her face neutral, curious to what he’d say.
Callan shrugged, green eyes twinkling. “Aye, I’ve had quite the journey to end up here. I have tried to go back, but seems I am destined to be here.”
Zara nodded. “It sounds like you want to go back?”
“Aye. My brother is there. The only family I have left.”
He missed Daisy’s wince, but Zara caught it and gave her a sad smile.
Her friend continued. “What’s been the most surprising thing about our time?”
“Besides the horseless carriages, modern technology, the food, and towering buildings?” Callan mused. “The ease and speed of travel. I wish to go up in the sky in a metal bird.”
Daisy watched the exchange, unable to say anything, wanting to know what her friend thought of him. Zara was logical and down to earth. Callan’s genuine bewilderment and fascination with modern life were hard to fake. Zara seemed equally entranced, her skepticism fading as the conversation continued.
As they prepared to leave, Zara pulled Daisy aside. “Hey, can I talk to you for a sec?”
Sensing they wanted time alone, Callan clipped the leash on Frankie. “I’ll take him for a walk and meet you at the van.”
“Okay.” She waited until the door shut behind him, then collapsed into the oversized floral chair.
Zara looked serious, sitting across from her, her eyes searching Daisy’s face.
“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I believe him. The stories, his reactions—he’s not making it up. I think he really is from the past.” She shook her head. “I can’t get over it. If scientists could figure out how he did it…”
A jolt of hope and relief flooded through her as Zara’s words resonated deep within, dispelling the last of her doubts. “You really believe him?”
