“Let’s have a Paaa-aaa-rrrr-tay” Tony was singing as they walked into the suite.

“Tony, man. That’s not cool.” Nick hung his head in shame.

Cesilie whispered “Is he always so high strung?”

Mike answered, “Nah. Sometimes he’s worse.” Everyone laughed, except Tony.

Things were incredibly quieter back at the hotel, even with the stereo playing. At least here people could talk without having to yell in order to barely be heard.

“Tony.” Mike was pulling on the man’s shoulder trying to get his attention.

“Yeah, dude, what’s up?” Slightly tipsy Tony turned to Mike and grinned.

“What’s going on over there?” Mike was referring to Nick and Cesilie who had been sitting over by the window for well over an hour talking quietly. Tony just grinned. “No man. Tell me this is not what I think it is.” Mike had a sick feeling in his stomach.

“Why, what’s the matter?” Tony didn’t have a clue.

“Who picked her?”

Poking himself in the chest, Tony smiled proudly.

“Do you know who she is?” After Tony gave a puzzled look and shook his head Mike continued, “Didn’t think so. She’s is a personal friend of the Murray’s, Bill and Mary Kay.” It took a second for things to sink in then Tony’s eyes nearly popped out of his head.

“Oh shit!” He spun around to stare at Nick who was still deep in conversation.

“Yeah, oh shit is right.”

MEANWHILE

“So, if you don’t like Lauderdale, then why don’t you move?” Nick was asking.

“I told you. My family is there. I know, that sounds pathetic. I like my work. I’m sure I could find a job that I like somewhere else, but the truth is I don’t feel comfortable living far away from them right now.”

“I guess there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s good to be close with your family. Or have someone at least that you’re close with.”

“Are you?”

“Am I what?” He looked down at his feet. She was beginning to realize this was a sign that they were entering a topic with which he was uncomfortable or didn’t know how to answer.

“Close with your family? I can see you are pretty close with your dad and brother.” She was rewarded with a small smile.

“Yeah, I guess. Aaron and I are pretty tight. But, I guess you can say I’m close with many people. Just look around.” To emphasize he spread his arms out.

She gave him a sad smile and whispered, “So many people yet so alone.”

“What?” He arched an eyebrow.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean anything. It just seems…” sigh. She didn’t even know how to finish what she was thinking. It just seemed like a completely lonely life to her. Not that hers was any better. She was just making an observation. When he touched her hand she jumped slightly but didn’t move away.

“It’s okay. It does get lonely sometimes.” She finally smiled after he gave her a small smile of his own.

Giving his fingers a little squeeze, “Well Nick, I really should head back to my own room now. I guess you could say I’m not much into all of this partying anymore. I’m probably pretty boring by your standards.” She joked and smiled.

“Partying gets old sometimes. But, when you can’t be out doing things, sometimes bringing a party back to your room seems like the only thing to do. I’ve enjoyed having someone to have a coherent conversation with.” He stood with her and followed her to the door not really sure what do next. “Maybe we can continue this conversation?”

“How? When I mean?”

“I dunno.” He shrugged his shoulders and looked at his feet before meeting her eyes. I’m not the best at keeping in touch, but I’d like to try.”

“Are you asking me for my number?” He had to be joking. She figured he’d never have anytime to call.

“Yeah, I guess I am. Is that okay? I’m not making any promises. Just, I dunno…” He trailed off. He really did hate telling someone that he would call or write or whatever cause he never knew when he would have time.

Sigh. “Umm. Sure, why not. It doesn’t hurt anything by giving you my number. You have something to write with?” Finding stationary and a pen didn’t take long. “Well, then maybe I’ll see you tomorrow. If not, then congrats again on the win.” It was an awkward moment and Cesilie wasn’t quite sure what to do.

“Yeah, thanks. Umm, yeah, let me walk you down to your room.” Nick turned to grab his room key and let Mike know what was going on, not really giving Cesilie a chance to answer.

“Mike, I think I can make it one floor down and back up again. I’ll even take my cell phone. I’ve wandered hotel floors unsupervised before.” Nick began.

Mike gave him a very unproven look.

“Relax man. I’ll be fine. Hold the fort down for me.” Nick turned to leave.

Mike hollered after him, “Nick, don’t think I don’t know…” he was cut off by the door closing behind Nick and Cesilie.

<~ Chapter 5 or Chapter7 ~>


Karina 2003