Me: Smartass.
I wanted to tickle her, bring her to tears.
Sophia: I read cataracts are caused by head glare, or is it sunshine?
Me: LMAO. Then you’re totally fucked.
Sophia: I know because I plan to look at that shiny head for a lifetime.
Me: Most people would be insulted, but I know my head is fucking sexy.
I loved her most for her brains, her lightning-fast wit. I longed to be with her. I needed to book my ticket to Florida. I couldn’t wait any longer.
21
Sophia
Mother Nature is a Bitch
Me: Have you watched the weather forecast at all today?
Kayden: I’ve heard people talking about a hurricane. Is it going to hit New Orleans? I thought it was going to make landfall in Texas.
Me: They’ve changed the location. They’re predicting NOLA now, and it’s supposed to hit the day you’re scheduled to fly out.
Kayden: Fucking unbelievable! I swear I have a black cloud following me around.
Me: You may have to postpone your trip.
I chewed my nails thinking about him being stuck in New Orleans during a hurricane. Would I know if he was okay? Visions of Hurricane Katrina filled my mind and made my stomach queasy.
Kayden: I’m not staying in the city if a hurricane is coming. I’ll see if I can cancel my ticket. If one is going to hit, they’ll close down the office anyway.
Me: When will you know about work?
Kayden: By morning I’ll know what’s going on.
But the storm track never wavered. Landfall would be near New Orleans. Kayden canceled his airplane ticket, deciding to drive to get out of the path and to see me since all business had been shut down.
“I’m getting ready to leave now, babe.”
“It’s already five here. You worked all day, and it’s a long drive. Are you going to be okay?” I asked.
“I’ll be fine. I have a cooler filled with energy drinks, a bag of candy, and music to keep me awake. Knowing I’ll be with you in a couple of hours will keep me awake.”
“Just drive slowly, for God’s sake. I’ll be here waiting. No need to rush.”
“I’ll drive like I always do. I’ll be there in about nine hours.”
“That’s what worries me. Be safe, love. I just want you in one piece,” I said, sighing into the phone.
“I’ll text you in a little while and keep you updated on where I am. I love you.”
“I love you, too, Kayden.” I tapped the end button on my phone.
I needed to keep myself busy while he drove. I knew he’d be careful, but the radar showed pockets of rain along the Gulf Coast, and it would be dark soon. I cleaned my bedroom, straightened up the house, and showered. His text messages were sparse, but each one gave me solace.
Kayden: I just crossed the Florida line and stopped for gas.
