Page 11 of Sombra
When I go to sleep, the only conclusion I’ve reached is that Shane’s nervous to let me go.
But it will be fine, I’m sure.
As my momand dad drive me to the airport in the early morning, I sit in the back seat, trying not to bite my nails, blinking my eyes rapidly.
Spain. Shane. Plane.
All of my worries rhyme, which makes it particularly annoying for them to run through my head.
I stare out the window at the soybeans.
My mom took the time off to go with me to the airport,which means a lot. Since she’s the boss, she can take off any time she likes, but she never does since she likes to keep to a schedule. Every day, like clockwork, she works out the prescribed amount of time, thinks sugar is sleepy seeds of the devil, and records every calorie in her mouth.
Guess that’s why I drink so many iced caramel mochas.
In contrast, my dad, who carried my bagsout and drives like he’s entitled to use two Iowa country lanes at once, has all the time in the world. When he talks to me, he really listens. Lots of eye contact.
But that’s because he’s a psychiatrist and his favorite subject is me.
I’m kinda wondering what it’s going to feel like to have no schedule other than class a few days a week. Not know anybody. Use Spanish in real lifefor the first time. What will I do to fill up my time?
And what the heck do I do with this ring on my finger?
I type out a last-minute email on my phone to my best friend Maggie, who lives in California with her forest ranger boyfriend in Yosemite National Park.
To:Maggie Washington
From: Kim Brown
Date: August 31
Re: Spain!!!!!
Mags,I just wanted to let you know I’m headed to the airport. The place is supposed to have Wi-Fi, so Skype when you can please!
But before I go, I have news. Shane gave me a promise ring. Can you believe it? Let me know when you’re online, because I HAVE to talk to you about this.
Wish me luck!
Love,
Kim
As I finish typing,my mom turns around. “Shouldwe start planning now? Or wait until you get back?”
“Planning what?”
“Your wedding, of course. With Shane.”
My stomach cramps, and I take a deep breath. “I think maybe wait. I mean, it’s just a promise ring.”
“But honey, all the best places will be reserved if we don’t get in a deposit now. Do you want me to do some scouting while you’re gone?”
Thuh-thumpgoesmy heart. I twiddle with the ring. It feels new and heavy on my finger. Lucky it fit right. “No. You should wait—”
“I’ll just look around a little bit. No reservations yet.”
I let out an exasperated sigh. “Fine.”
