But I’m flying again. Next week.
With George Bunsen.
My body gets hot so fast that I stride over to my window and wrench the old thing open, warped wood letting out a screeching protest at the manhandling. The cool night breeze chills the sweat on my skin.
He’s not even here, and the man is making me perspire. With lust!
Belatedly, I recall the final argument against this whole endeavor. The one I effectively ignored.
I’m hot for the pilot.
“It’s just one more time,” I mutter to the night, and probably to a few squirrels eyeing the open window as a possible entry point into the house. Reluctant to relinquish the soothing chill, I shut the window slowly as I give myself a pep talk.
You can do this. George is a grumpy a-hole. His face is only mildly devastatingly handsome. My will is stronger than any danger-inspired crush.
With a firm thunk, the window closes, and my confidence in my decision holds. I’m sure I can keep my libido in check for a handful of hours while I inoculate myself against flying fear.
After this trip I’ll focus on making money. No more flying for a while.
And no more George Bunsen ever again.
Chapter
5
When Shawn toldme to meet George at the airport a few weeks ago for our flight, he pushed hard that I had to go because it was a gift. And as a gift, I did not feel obligated to pay George in any way.
But today, I bring payment.
Not in the form of money, of course. Not when I’m clinging to every cent so I can hand it over to my brother in a few months.
Today, I’m paying in the currency of chocolate. Which, according to a text exchange with Shawn, is a tender George accepts.
Me:Does George eat desserts?
Shawn:Yes! But not enough in my opinion. I took him out for donuts and he got one! ONE!!! And they were having a deal on half-dozens!
Me:You use more exclamation points than a cheerleader in a sorority during spirit week
Shawn:Yes! I!! DO!!!
Me:What desserts does he like? Any allergies?
Shawn:Why do you want to know? Why aren’t you asking what desserts I like?
Shawn:The answer: all of them
Me:Your sugar consumption is concerning. Don’t you know that normal businessmen stick to cocaine?
Shawn:You really want to see what I’m like on cocaine?
Me:Hell no
Shawn:Thought so! Are you baking for George?
Me:Yes
Me:I want to thank him for taking me flying again
