Page 21 of Stolen Moments with a Bad Boy

“Sounds like a plan!” Erie cheered.

We handed over our IDs, then filled out the release forms.

“Okay, guys, follow me over here.”

I was amazed at the whole setup. People were suited and encased in these see-through pods where the wind blew them around crazily. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to experience that, but I probably didn’t have a choice because of Erie.

“What’s up, guys? I’m Will. Is this your first time?”

“Yes,” we answered in unison.

“Okay. Awesome. Here are the mandatory uniforms for the skydive. No jewelry of any kind is permitted. Miss, do you have a hair tie for your hair?” Will asked nicely.

“Yes, I do.” Erie quickly pulled the hair tie from her wrist and placed her hair in a low bun.

“Also, do you have any sneakers? The sandals are not permitted.”

Erie raised up her crossbody bag.

“They're in my bag,” she replied.

“Awesome!”

Will handed each of us a blue jumper with the helmet and goggles. Once we were dressed, he continued with his speech.

“The wind coming from the tunnel is really strong, so the helmet and the goggles protect you. There are also tiny holes of ventilation in the helmet that will blow loose strands of hair in your eyes. That’s why we direct you to pin your hair down. It may seem like you’re being blown around for a long time because you have no control or balance, but this exhilarating ride is only ten minutes long.”

After Will finished going over the do’s and don'ts, it was time for us to get started. As usual, Erie opted to go first. Erie always tried to take the lead. It was her way of trying to protect me.

Most men would probably find this offensive, but I didn’t. It felt good having someone willing to love me and protect me for a change. Every time she took the lead, it just reminded me of the lionesses in a pride. The male lions allowed them to hunt and lead to a certain extent.

They naturally knew when to step in, and that was how Erie and I were. I was perfectly confident in my manhood, and I knew exactly when to step up. I watched as Erie laughed and flipped all over the indoor pod. My Bella soared like a real bird.

She clearly had the time of her life. My body filled with so much happiness to see her happy. Forever was how that would be. After a few more flips, her turn was over, and she ran into my arms.

“Ro, baby, you are going to love it!” She clapped eagerly like a kid on Christmas morning.

“I sure hope so.” When it was my turn, the wind hoisted me around like a paper plane. It was such an invigorating feeling. At this point, I was carefree and a kid all over again. I didn’t have the burden of the past weighing down on me. For once in my life, besides being with Erie, I closed my eyes and thought about nothing but freedom. Before I met Erie, I just seemed to drudge through my life without a second thought. I dreaded sleep every day because of the painful memories of the past.

Now, life had changed. The past only surfaced when I had a job to do, and even then, Erie’s touch always brought me back to the life we were building together. She was my saving grace. The wind blew me all the way to the top, and I held my hands at my sides like I was a rocket. The wind gradually decreased, and my turn was over. Once I’d gathered my bearings, I exited the pod, and Erie ran into my arms.

“How was it, baby?” she asked happily.

“It was a wonderful experience.” I smiled then kissed her.

“That’s what I like to hear.”

We changed out of our jumpers then proceeded to my car, holding hands. She slid into the passenger’s seat, and I jogged around to the driver’s side.

“Where to now?” she inquired.

“Downtown to Millennium Park.”

“Yes! I can’t wait.” She leaned over and pecked my cheek.

Minutes later, we pulled into a parking garage.

I helped her out and popped the trunk. Present were all the items I needed for a great picnic. I pulled out my mini cooler.

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