Page 86 of The Sky in Summer
Here, in front of the massive fireplace, two lovers can be in a cocoon of beauty under the branches of the fruit tree. The fur throw they own, laid out in front of the fire they will light. Adam and Eve getting it on, Eden style. I fix the folded corner and with a satisfied nod head to the entry.
David and Tyler walked me through hooking up the musical doormat. My little idea ended up causing the most problems, but eventually I got it. Now, when someone steps inside, onto the mat, the sound of Josh Groban singing “Pure Imagination” greets them. I am so excited about this part. Funny that it is from Willy Wonka. I have never met anyone that isn’t charmed by it though. It is a magical song, sung perfectly. It will play through only when they step on the mat. Which should happen only once, so it won’t be overkill. But it sets the mood of entering a new world. I love it.
I set the alarm, lock the door and stash the key in my purse. I head for the car more tired than I have been in ages.
Checking my phone for new messages there’s just one. A reminder I have a day of beauty scheduled at the spa. That was so cool of Dove. I need it desperately. The massage will take these knots from my shoulders. The manicure and pedicure will reset my mood of thinking I look like hell. I mean I do, but it can be undone by professionals. A haircut and blow dry will make me look like a better version of myself. I tap Tyler’s number. He answers on the first ring.
“Hi Mom.”
“Hi. I’m headed for the spa. Are we three still on for tonight? There’s no teenage emergencies, right?”
He chuckles. “No emergencies.”
“Good. We’re going to dine like kings. It’s a fancy restaurant you know.”
“Oh, fancy! You’re funny, Mom. David and I are going to order lobster. We already talked about it.”
“No, you’re not. It’s a gift, but we don’t have to take advantage.”
“Whatever.”
It is amazing how many conversations with the boys end with that word.
By the end of the treatments, I feel like a new woman. Dinner requires me to change my recent uniform of sweatpants and sweatshirt. As I stare in the mirror, I am reminded of another night. It brings a smile to my face, but that is deceiving. I remember the clothes I wore as I looked at my image. That was the first clue I cared. I wanted to make as good as an impression as possible. Guess it worked on some level, because we ended up in bed that night.
I shake it off and give myself a nod. I dressed for myself tonight. And for the boys. They are my escorts, and it makes me happy.
The sound of my cell interrupts. I cross to the bureau and check the screen. Dove.
“Hi. What’s up?”
“I’m so sorry to ask this, but we are locked out!”
“What? Why?”
“And my phone is dying! I have less than half a bar! I know you are about to go to dinner, but can you swing by here and let us in? Oh shit, all your work will…”
It dies between her thoughts. Fuck fuck fuckity fuck. I don’t have a choice.
“Boys, we need to leave right now! I have to go and let Dove and Noble in. They’re locked out! Come on!”
David meets me in the hallway.
“You’re not dressed!”
“I still had a half hour!”
Tyler joins us in his boxer briefs and a dress shirt.
“What’s all this?”
I wave them both off and head for the keys and my purse.
“Never mind. Just be ready when I get back. David will tell you. Lock the door.”
Their laughter follows me. I know I know. “It’s habit. Shut up.”
I move quickly, grabbing my things and slamming the door behind me.
