I leaned against Alexander, my arm wrapped around his waist and his around my shoulder, as we gazed out into the picturesque evening.
I think I see Aunt Libby`s apartment, I said, pointing to a group of town houses.
I think I can see into her window, he said, teasing me. Even I don`t have that kind of vision.
Well...I think that`s her apartment.
But your aunt Libby lives in that part of town, he said, nodding toward an area of homes a few miles over.
I had no sense of direction.
Well, I know over there is Main Street. And there`s a park, the train station, and the art museum, I said, proudly gesturing to obvious places of interest. Did I tell you you are the most beautiful tour guide I`ve ever seen? He picked me up and spun me around and gave me a passionate kiss. When he set me down, not only did the bell tower spin, but so did the town.
I latched on to him until I was steady.
I wanted to bring you to a place where we could explore all of the town together in one evening, Alexander remarked.
This is perfect! I agreed.
We unpacked our dinner, specially prepared by Jameson. Alexander tore into his grilled steak sandwich and gulped down his red drink while I broke off pieces of French bread. I was so distracted by the beautiful night, fresh air, and my handsome boyfriend that I had little appetite.
I marveled at how much Alexander enjoyed his food.
Maybe I`ll cook for you someday, I offered.
Really? You know how?
I`m great at mac and cheese and steak fries. Or I can prepare a mean bowl of cereal.
Alexander beamed. I may have to take you up on that.
Then I rested my head against his lap as he sipped his bottle of thick liquid.
When we`d finished and cleaned up, we leaned against an archway, a safe distance from the ledge but in full view of the town. I sat back, entranced, watching Alexander against the sparkling lights of Hipsterville.
Each time Alexander took me on a date, it was more spectacular than the one before. He spent as much time thinking about and preparing for our dates as he did creating one of his paintings. My heart would skyrocket with the touch of his hand, or an unearthly kiss. At the same time, I was comforted knowing there was no place on earth I`d rather be than by his side.
I have something for you, he said, digging into the backpack.
I imagined him presenting me with a small jewelry box--perhaps a ring--or a larger gift, such as a bouquet of dead black roses.
Instead he handed me a flat package, the size of an envelope, neatly wrapped in black lace.
I tore the fabric off the package in wild anticipation of its contents. It was a one-way bus ticket to Dullsville.
Aren`t you excited? he asked, beaming as bright as the stars above us.
Sure...
He seemed disappointed with my reaction. I thought it was what you wanted. Jameson and I have already begun packing.
It is...But you`re still here. Aunt Libby. And the--
The what?
Uh...the...summer. Freedom.
We`ll spend summer at home. Together.