We sank into our seats before I ordered. Relief that the semester had ended buzzed through the air. Laughing, everyone talked over each other, looking like they’d just survived a marathon together.
Kelvin flipped his laptop shut. “Well, good to see you guys, but I’m gonna head out.”
“See you at the gala, Kelvin?” I asked.
“Hell yeah. Try to keep me away. See ya, guys.” He nodded as he walked off.
“So, Karson,” Tyler said with a chuckle. “How the hell did you manage to find a McLaren to drive to Abu Dhabi, go sightseeing, party like there’s no tomorrow, win a race in a Lambo,andget home in time to hand your assignment in?”
“Good question,” added Jamie.
A smile tugged at my mouth. “Sheer talent and years of practice.”
Laughter circled the table, after sharing a few stories from the UAE, I hitched my pack over my shoulder and stood.
“Whoa,” Tyler said, shaking his head, “I still can’t believe you’re friends with Archie Jenson.You lucky bastard.”
“Maybe I’ll introduce you sometime.” I laughed as his face lit up like a Christmas tree. “Don’t forget the party, guys. It’s going to be mental.”
“We’ll be there, bro,” Tyler yelled as I walked away.
I headed toward where Gus would be waiting and tried calling Ivy again. She hadn’t answered the day before.
Today’s a new day… and there’s still hope.
If I could see her in person at the gala, I might still be able to win her back. But the phone went to voicemail.
“G’day, son,” Gus said as I got into the new gray SUV he’d chosen.
The usual Range Rover he drove had been seized as part of SolStar’s assets. It had been love at first sight for Gus when he laid eyes on the new gray Jaguar.
“So, Karson, how was the last day of semester?”
“You know what, Gus?” I laughed. “It was great. I’ve made some great friends at uni.”
“I’m glad to hear that.” His eyes dropped to the brown paper bag in my hand. “Whatever’s in that bag, it smells bloody good.”
“Here.” I passed it over. “I got you a panini with extra avocado and a cranberry juice. Don’t say I never get you anything.” I grinned.
“Thanks, mate.” He ripped open the bag and bit into the panini. “I admit I got a bit peckish while I was waiting, but I’m not complaining. Waiting for you gives me a chance to catch up on my reading.”
“Oh, yeah? What are you reading?” I leaned closer.
“You inspired me with your trip.” He held up the book. “You might get time to read it… when you retire.” He chuckled, finishing his last mouthful before pulling away.
“Gus, I’ve been thinking about something for a while now. Can I run it by you?”
“Of course. You can talk to me about anything.”
“Well, you know over the years, kickboxing has helped me out of some dicey situations and helped me deal with some personal stuff, right?” I met his gaze in the mirror.
“Too right it has! I’ll never understand how you held back from using it on those pesky paparazzi. Very impressive.” He gave a hearty laugh. “But what’s on your mind, son?”
“Well, because it’s helped me so much, I’d like to help others develop those skills too.” I paused. “What do you think of me starting a martial arts studio for kids who need a solid outlet and who may not have the same opportunities I did?”
“What do I think?” Gus beamed in the rearview mirror. “I think, what are you waiting for? Who better to do it than you? You’re an excellent role model, you have the training, the desire, and the funds. You can make a real difference in those kids’ lives.”
“Thanks, Gus. I also want to offer a mentor program for kids who need someone in their corner. After all, not everyone’slucky enough to have a Gus in their life.” I gave him a one-sided smile.
