Auntie Kiki knocked on my door, wearing a long denim skirt and a western shirt. She gave me a big hug. “We’re going. Don’t worry about us. You’re here to have a good time, so have it. Be safe, make good choices, and don’t be afraid to kick them in the balls if they try anything.”
“Thank you, Auntie, that's all very good advice. I do have car money if I need it.” I hugged her back. “I really am glad that you brought me.”
“I’m sorry for the circumstances, but I’m happy you’re here. Have you heard anything from the banks on your refund?” she asked.
“The partial refund from the hotel hasn’t hit my account yet. I did fill out the travel insurance information to see if they can get me the rest,” I said.
“I still think you should’ve canceled their connections and left them stranded in Manila,” Auntie Kiki smirked.
“I know. But them not being able to get back from Bali will be even funnier,” I replied. “The bank is still investigating, but they might be able to reverse the charge.”
“I hope it leaves his account negative, so he is stranded in Bali with no ticket, and no money.” She thought for a moment. “And worms.”
One could only hope.
Auntie Kiki’s eyes scanned my outfit. “Feeling cute today?”
“I am.” I kicked up my heel and struck a little pose.
They left and I played around on my phone for a while. Finally, I went down to the lobby and saw Claire sitting in a chair, on her phone.
“Claire, how are you?” I asked.
She smiled. “Great. Hey, did you end up meeting anyone in the bar? I looked for you yesterday but didn’t see you. I wanted to check in.”
“I met a couple of hockey players. They’re really nice.” I checked my phone. “I’m actually waiting for them. They’re going to take me to the zoo.”
Her look became amused. “The zoo?”
“I’m an ethnobotany major. There’s a greenhouse near the aviary they thought I’d like, and I do enjoy animals. Yesterday we went to the arboretum.” I smiled at the memory of climbing trees. That was something I’d remember for always.
“I’m so glad you’re having fun with them. What hockey players did you meet? Jackson's friends with some of them.” She looked around, probably for him.
“Steven and Ashton. I think Ashton mentioned that Jackson was friends with someone he knew,” I replied.
“Oh, yeah. Probably Rhett. Pretty sure all the guys on the team are nice. I’m glad you’re having a good time,” she said.
“Are you meeting Jackson again?” I asked.
“I’m actually meeting up with my friends.” Claire glanced toward the door.
A bunch of women who, like Claire, looked straight out of sorority rush videos, came in. She waved at them.
“Have a great time.” My phone buzzed and I saw a text.
Steven
Almost there
“I’m going to wait for my ride.” I waved and left as Claire hugged her friends.
The warm April air greeted me as Ashton’s big truck pulled up. Like yesterday, Steven got out and opened the door for me, which was really sweet.
He gave me a hug. “It’s nice to see you.”
It was warm and soothing, his grass scent swirling around me.
“Hi! Did you sleep okay? You’re supposed to be resting, not driving me all over Nashville. But I’m really looking forward to our day today,” I said.
