Page 118 of Fluke
PIPPA
Kerissa: I HAVE A STORY FOR YOU.
Me: Tell me.
Kerissa: Are you home yet?
I sit on the edge of my bed and kick off my shoes.I’ve never noticed how bright my bedroom is.
Then again, everything has seemed brighter today.
We stopped for breakfast on the way back to Kismet Beach. We had noticed the diner on the way to Silver Springs—a blue building with rocking chairs on the front porch and bright white trim. The hanging baskets of flowers are what caught my eye initially while I waited for Jess to pump gas. We were thrilled to learn that their French toast and biscuits and gravy were just as lovely as their curb appeal.
He carried my bag into my apartment, continuing the argument that started while we were brushing our teeth that I shouldn’t go to my apartment; I should just go straight to his house. I maintained that I needed to go home and get clean clothes. I needed my computer for work. And he had things he needed to do too. He kept talking about checking on the project he left behind. A day apart wouldn’t kill us.
I don’t think.
“I’ll get Banks and Maddox to bring their trucks over this weekend to get your stuff,” Jess said. “Start packing, Dream Girl.”
Grinning, I tap my fingers on the screen.
Me: I just got here.
Kerissa: How did it go?
Me: I have lots to tell you. But you have A STORY TO TELL ME. You go first.
Kerissa: This one requires being face-to-face and alcohol. Can I come over tonight?
Me: Yes. What time?
Kerissa: Eight sound good? I have a hair appointment at four and it takes her for-ev-er.
Me: Okay, Ham.
Kerissa: Okay, Squints.
Me: That was a great movie.
Surely, Jess has watchedThe Sandlot. I’ll have to ask.I smile.There’s so much to learn about him.
But there’s no rush. I have a long time—maybe the rest of my life.
I consider telling Kerissa about my news but wait. I’ll surprise her tonight.
Kerissa: See you then.
Me: Bye.
I open my contacts and find Bridgit’s number. At worst, I can leave her a message. I want her to know how great the retreat went.
“Bridgit Cooperton speaking,” she says.
“Hi, Bridgit. It’s Pippa.”
“Pippa, hello. How are you? Are you back from Silver Springs?”
I get to my feet and wander aimlessly around the apartment, taking in all the little things I’ll have to get ready by the weekend.
