We walk over to the first two-seater, and I offer a hand to help Melanie off the platform and into her seat. Once everyone is sitting, the attendant explains that the train tracks loop around through the marshes, the nature preserve, and over some water before coming back to this very spot. “Now, you won’t move if you stop peddling, so make sure you keep your feet on the pedals. On your cards, there is a list of animals, birds, and insects to spot on your journey. Be sure to take in the sights. They are one of a kind! Have fun and good luck!” she says, pacing the platform.
Before I have a chance to say anything else, Melanie starts pedaling, propelling us forward slowly. I join in, and we move in silence for a moment or two, both of us working hard to find a pace ahead of the others.
“I’m really happy to see you too, Josh,” Melanie says it so quietly, I almost don’t hear her.
When I glance her way, she’s smiling wistfully at me.
“It’s been too long,” I murmur in agreement. “You feel like home.”
Melanie smiles softly and shakes her head. “No, it’s not me that feels like home. It’s this place.” She opens her arms and gestures around us.
“I’m not so sure about that,” I say, shaking my head.
Melanie looks uncomfortable for just a second before pushing her sunglasses that are resting on top of her head down over her eyes. “So, what are your plans while you’re here?”
“You’re looking at them.” I laugh, scratching the back of my head. “Though I guess maybe after this, I should find somewhere to stay. You don’t want me all up in your space for another night.”
“I don’t know… If you don’t mind the couch, I kind of like the company.” A corner of her mouth tips upward, like she’s trying not to look so hopeful.
I’m not sure why but my chest tightens. I nod, looking at her. It’s a good thing we don’t have to steer this thing too much because neither one of us has looked at the track in front of us. “I guess, maybe for a couple of nights. We can see how things go.”
“Well, I have work tonight anyway so you won’t be in my way.” Melanie elbows me with a teasing grin.
“You don’t have a boyfriend that’s going to come knock me out when he realizes I’m staying with you, do you?” I tease.
Melanie shakes her head. “Sadly, no. It’s just me.” She looks like she wants to say something else but holds back.
“Okay.” I nod, convinced. “If you’re sure, Strawberry Girl.” I use my old nickname for her. It rolls off my tongue like no time has passed at all.
Her eyes light up and she smiles again, “I’m sure.”
Then
Josh,
I was thinking about how Cara keeps asking what’s going on with us. It’s nagging at me, so I started writing lyrics about it. I have never written my own songs but… I’ve been playing around with these words in my head. It needs a melody. I’m not sure how I’m hearing it. What do you think?
You’re a song I shouldn’t write,
A spark I shouldn’t light.
But every melody pulls me in,
Like the way you smile when you begin.
It’s wrong, it’s right, it’s something new,
I don’t know the notes, but I know you.
We keep it quiet, keep it cool,
But every note bends the rules.
If you knew what I felt inside,
Would you stay, or would you hide?
It needs more though. Want to work on it with me? Also…don’t show anyone!!
