Page 72

Kaiser,

I know you’re judgy — your word not mine. The end justifies the means. Don’t judge yourself or me.

Knock it off.

John

John? Fucker threw a temper tantrum and wanted me to know. And it was like eight days ago. I like hearing from him but this is weird.

Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Harpy — Let’s pretend this is the first card. I’m not sold on Kat or Katy or K Taylor or Katydid. Everyone seems to call you something different. I’ll need to think about what I’m going to call you. Maybe you figure out who you are and what you want to be called, then I’ll see if I approve. After an incredibly long flight, I see that I can be a bit of a self-righteous prick. I like that guy, but I didn’t mean to be that guy to you. Maybe I did, but I just reread that card and it’s a bit harsh. I’m still sending it because I meant what I said in a way. Hopefully you can interpret it.

-Asshole

Rana Park, Dhaka. - a couple of them. But first a real one not a pissy one.

Kat —

Hot as balls here but strange. Thick almost. There’s a park with Dr. Seuss-looking trees, Rana, that people gather under on New Year’s at sunrise. It’s supposed to be good luck. I sat under a tree at sunrise by a lake and it was like something out of the Lorax. I left my mark. I wore your Cure shirt on camera today. Not sure if you knew it was gone. I have a couple of others too. Figured it was fair trade for my Wilco.

Z

Rana Park is my first signpost. I can’t wait to see that tree at sunrise.

On the Way to Delhi.

Kat — Kat’s so plain. You’re not plain. I can be an ass. Especially to people who ‘have my number,’ as our mothers might say. As much as we can, we shouldn’t talk about our parents. I think it’s for the best. Very frustrating writing in this stilted manner. I have a solution for this fucking lag time. Just wait.

XXX (all kisses because don’t feel like hugging you)

Z

He’s weirdly charming, and I’m not insane that I keep thinking about him. He’s thinking about me. Or at least he was like six days ago. He’s right the fucking lag sucks. I don’t want to talk to him. I don’t want to talk to anyone about what I’m doing. But I do want to hear from him. These will probably be the only cards I get. I’ll be gone for the next batch. I’m leaping without looking. I’ll most likely fall, but I’m pretty sure I can get back up now.

Chapter 34

Lag Time

KAT

Rhinebeck

I snagged a Samuels Sweet Shop postcard and purchased my traveling candy. I shove some gummies in my mouth. I write without knowing when and how he’ll read it. Maybe a hotel ahead of his schedule.

My Kitchen. Or more to the point. Skipper’s little table.

Z,

You’re definitely an ass. Where are you? I feel more myself with that camera in my hand. I don’t know how you knew that. I’m astounded by your insight or dumb guess. Thank you for your hat.

I wish there wasn't a lag as well. And where the hell do I send this?

Kat

But I think I do need to tell him in a way I won’t be with the moms.

KAT: Seemed urgent and wasn’t sure how to get in touch. Sorry for the text. They want to release the announcement. And just so you know the Moms think I’m heading to you soon. I’ll explain later. Using my year so to speak. I’ll be out of town.