What We Search For
By
Natasha Stories
Copyright 2014 by Natasha Stories
This book is protected under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Any reproduction or other unauthorized use of the material or artwork herein is prohibited. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. All rights reserved.
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Epilogue
Chapter OneTo say my nerves were getting the better of me is an understatement. I was sitting in row 15 seat C, next to a complete stranger who was ignoring me entirely as my hands fumbled to tighten the seatbelt. I could barely think straight.
The last few months of my life were an absolute blur. Where it all started to go wrong was difficult to determine, and to say it all went wrong might be overreacting, but living a lifestyle of complacency had taken its toll. I was lonely.
I sat next to my unsociable neighbor with a grin on my face that could have been mistaken as maniacal, if someone were to notice. Since I’d made the decision to leave, the months leading up to this moment had been a flurry of activity, from selling my belongings to notifying work, and saying my farewells to family and friends. I was leaving on a two year working VISA. Everything I owned was either stowed away in the lower levels of the plane or was in my carry-on. Or I was wearing it.
When I said goodbye to my family I was itching to leave. An overwhelming sense of freedom had washed over me. Now that I was on the plane it was a different story. My palms were sweaty and I didn't know what to do with my hands.
Looking around the plane didn't help, so I focused on the chair in-front of me and waited to take off. I had never enjoyed flying and hadn't even left the country before this. As much as I was excited, I was equally anxious about whether I had made the right decision.
“Come on.” I muttered impatiently. I wanted to be in the air already. The plane moved into position and the crew ran their final checks. I looked away as they demonstrated the safety briefing with their overly enthusiastic smiles. The plane came to a stop at the start of the runway, the engines increased their power and the breaks were released. We roared down the tarmac and into the air, as my stomach took the ride of its life.
We finally leveled off and I removed my white knuckles from the arms of my chair. Cabin crew roamed up and down the aisles ensuring everyone had their tasteless coffees or biscuits in short order.
Coming to a stop in-front of me a beautiful hostess cast her gaze upon me. She had blond hair and brown eyes and her smile lit up her entire face. Her figure was accentuated by her uniform with her skirt hugging flowing hips, her blouse coming apart at the top to show a hint of cleavage with a promise of more to come. Placing a hand on the seat in front of me, she leaned over and asked the anti-social man next to me if he would like a drink. His reply came as a muffled ‘no’ as he returned to his own devices.
Turning back to me the hostess was still leaning over and I couldn't help but throw a quick glance down her top, thinking myself an idiot as I returned her smile awkwardly. I could tell I'd been caught in the act, a knowing smile was plastered all over her face.
Leaning towards her, I cut her off as she started to speak. "Nothing for me thanks." I said.
“Okay, no problem. Let me know if you’d like anything later though Hun,” she replied, standing up and returning to her cart. I watched as she continued her way up the aisle, her presence noted by nearly every man she passed.
The flight was a long one. All the way to LA with a quick transfer to Calgary, Canada. I wasn’t sure if I was lucky or not, but I knew I would be absolutely exhausted by the end. Reaching into my carry on backpack I found my kindle and settled in for the haul. Reading always seemed to calm my nerves, and thankfully it had the desired effect.
Sixteen hours of flying, and no sleep at all. My book mostly finished, I heard the captain indicate we were close to our destination, and the crew should prepare for landing. I tried to lean over my sleeping neighbor without waking him, and barely managed to see out the window. A tired smile flicked across my face as the sprawling concrete jungle of Los Angeles lay before me.
We finally set down and after coming to a stop, I stood to disembark. Sighing from a mixture of exhaustion and relief, the thought I still had another 3 hour flight to go didn’t excite me.
Picking up my backpack I stood in line as everyone attempted to get off of the plane at once. As I made my way to the exit I met the eyes of the hostess I had spoken to and smiled at her. "Thank you for traveling with us and I hope you enjoyed your flight." She said returning my smile as I was the next to get off. “Thank you.” I replied, as I stepped off of the plane.
Shouldering my bag I set out to organize my luggage and continue on my merry way. Passing through customs took longer than I would have liked. Nearly eighteen hours into my journey, I had another wait before the flight was due so I checked in early. Relieving myself of my luggage I found the nearest seat in which I could read some more.
Lost in my book I heard a crash and looked up to find the cause. A young woman had fallen over in front of me. Jumping up I put my kindle on my chair and rushed over to help. "Are you okay?" I asked. Reaching in, I took her elbow and her shoulder and eased her back to her feet.
"Thank you so much! I’m really clumsy, but I’m fine." She said, as she brushed herself off. Once she looked up our eyes met and my heart skipped a beat. She was gorgeous.
Shining intelligent grey eyes met mine. Her lips glistened and parted ever so slightly. She had defined cheek bones with a hint of a blush, and long wavy brown hair.
She cocked her head as the silence extended a little too long. "I'm glad you're okay. Here let me help you with that." I said, as I set to correcting her toppled luggage, "Going on holiday?" I asked, returning my attention to her.
"No I've actually just returned from one. I'm heading home." She replied with a smile, "My name's Amanda by the way, and you are?" She asked as she grasped her luggage handle with one hand and extended her other.
"Nice to meet you Amanda. I’m James. I just arrived from Australia." I replied, grasping her hand as I milked my accent with each word. She took hold of my hand and shook it easily.
"I thought so! Your accent is hard to miss. Thanks for helping me!" Amanda said gratefully, her smile still holding me in place, "So. What are you doing in LA?"
"I'm actually just passing through and heading up to Canada." I replied.
"That sounds great. I hope you have an amazing time.” She said with a smile, “I’ve always wanted to go to Canada.”
“It’s weird. I didn’t really consider it until this year.” I responded slowly, “All of a sudden I had to escape. So here I am!”
“That’s great though. Sometimes those snap decisions turn out to be the best.” Amanda replied.
“That’s what I was thinking too.” I said, smiling. Amanda reached over and touched my hand gently. Her touch was warm and sent sparks through my arm.
“I wish you all the best James! Thanks again for helping me. It was so embarrassing!” She said, looking away.
“Glad I could help! It was a pleasure to meet you Amanda.” I replied. “Hopefully you’ll recover from your fall.” I added with a
grin. Laughing, Amanda reached for her luggage once more.
“I appreciate your concern.” She replied, with a smile of her own, “I better get going. My parents are here to pick me up. It was nice to meet you too James! Have fun in Canada!”
“Thanks Amanda. Take care, and try not to trip over the floor on your way to the car.” I said, poking fun as she turned away.
“I won’t promise anything!” She called over her shoulder, as she walked away, waving goodbye.
Watching her go was strange as I had just met this girl, but for some reason my heart sank. I wanted to talk to her more to get to know her. It was a strange sensation for such a short meeting, and one I had never felt before.
Returning to my chair I continued to read until my flight was called, and I was on board in short order. Everything ran as smoothly as expected and the flight had no delays. The flight itself hardly bothered me, as I used the time recalling my encounter with Amanda. I played it over and over in my head bringing a smile to my lips.
Landing in Canada was a nice experience, and true to what I'd heard everyone I dealt with was very polite. Finding my bags I walked slowly to the exit of the airport, and looked around trying to figure out my next move. After extensive hours of research back home, I had chosen Banff to be my destination. Finding my way to the bus terminal, I got my ticket and was on the bus in short order.
Sitting on the bus I waited as the remaining passengers took their seats. A man I put around my own age walked up the isle and took the seat next to me. “Hey man.” He said as he settled in. His voice was thick with a British accent.
“Hey. How are you mate?” I replied.
“Amazing! Just arrived in Canada. Making my way up to Banff for who knows how long. How ‘bout you?” He asked.
“Exactly the same for me.” I replied happily, turning to look at my neighbor more easily. He was fairly well built and above average height with a friendly face.
“Ha! Already making friends and we’re only on the bus. Nice to meet you! I’m Chris.” He said extending his hand happily.
“Chris. Nice to meet you mate, I’m James.” I replied, shaking his hand. “What brought you to Canada?”
“Honestly? I was bored.” Chris replied seriously, scratching his head as he did. “You?”
“Exactly the same. Tired of my job, and tired of my nine to five lifestyle.” I replied.
“Probably going to be a whole lot of that going around I guess.” Chris said, looking out the window for a moment.
“Yeah I’d imagine as much.” I said, as I followed his gaze. The bus closed its doors and we were on our way.
My first experience with snow was as magical as I'd always thought it would be. I watched through the windows of the bus and looked on with wonder as snowflakes began to fall. “Never seen snow before.” I said to Chris, my mouth slightly agape.
“Really? How’s your first impression?” He asked.
“Can I say magical and beautiful without getting judged?” I said, still looking out the window. Chris laughed and I noticed him shaking his head from the corner of my eye.
“We’ll let it slide this once.” He said with a grin.
All of the surroundings changed as we made our way up into the mountains. Frozen lakes and snow covered pines, and white as far as the eye could see. One of the biggest smiles creased my face as I looked out upon the landscape. In that moment I was genuinely happy. “You alright?” Chris asked.
“Yeah, it’s crazy. All my life I’ve wanted to see snow.” I replied happily. A satisfied smile crossing my face. “It’s even better than I had hoped.”
Soon enough we arrived in Banff. Chris and I got our first taste of the beautiful town. Stepping from the bus, the crunch of our feet made me giggle as I kicked up snow, and we ventured down the street.
“You really are enjoying this aren’t you?” Chris asked, as he watched me dance my way through the snow.
“More than I can explain.” I replied, laughing as I kicked more and more snow. My feet were cold, as the shoes I wore were by no means designed for this type of weather, but I didn't care.
“Where to for you?” Chris asked, as we walked along the main street.
“I guess I’ll stay in a hostel for a bit. Until I can find a place that is. You?” I replied.
“I have a place lined up. Was looking for a long time though.” He said.
“Yeah, I’ll have to have a good look.” I started, “Want to grab some grub tonight?” I asked, pointing at a nearby pub.
“Why not! It’ll be good to try some Canadian beer. Around seven sound about right?” Chris added.
“Sounds good to me mate. Alright I’ll see you there.” I said happily.
Walking our separate ways I walked down the main street. Everywhere I looked was stunning. Mountains covered in snow surrounded the small town of Banff. Christmas lights were strewn through the trees.
People were everywhere walking along, slowly taking in their surroundings, and looking in the shop windows with rosy cheeks as frosted breath escaped their mouths. Nobody was in a rush here. The whole feeling put me in an amazing mood. I had found my winter wonderland.
Chapter Two
Leaving Australia near the end of spring I found myself in Canada at the end of fall. I had to update my clothing before I froze to death. To me it was already ridiculously cold, but apparently it got a lot colder, and people still walked around like it was nothing.
It was astonishing. I checked in at the hostel and stowed away my belongings. Sitting on the bed, I rested my head for only a moment and drifted to sleep.
Snapping open my eyes I glanced at the time. I had to meet Chris. I jumped out of bed and walked over to the door, and moved outside into the crisp night air.
“Hey.” Chris said, as he watched me walk up to the bar where he sat.
“Hey mate. How did your house turn out?” I asked.
“Great! I was going to talk to you about it actually.” He started, “One of the guys I’m living with knows a guy looking for a house-mate. If I were you I’d jump at it. You won’t get many opportunities, and especially at this time of year.” He said seriously.
“Oh yeah? I’d love that. Anything would be great.” I said.
“Okay I’ll let him know. I told him you would most likely be interested.” Chris replied.
The pub was good the beer was good, and life was better.
“So every day was the same. I’d go to work then come home, and rinse and repeat. I was missing something in my life so I had to get out of there.” I said seriously, around a mouth full of food. Chris watched me intently, and nodded his head the entire time.
“You’re preaching to the choir my friend,” He started slowly, “I know the feeling all too well. Nine to five job with decent pay, and at the point in life where you need to make a decision about your future. Fuck. I’m not ready for that shit.” He finished with a sigh.
“I think we’ve made the right choice.” I said slowly.
“Only one way to find out.” Chris said, as he flagged down our server. A grin shot across his face. “Sorry, but could we grab a couple of Burt Reynolds shots and two of your best, cheapest beers.”
“Sure thing.” Our server replied happily. Moments later she returned with our drinks.
“Cheers!” Chris and I said, as we downed our shots.
“I could get used to this.” I said with a laugh.
Not long into my stay, I was contacted by the guy with a spare room, and luckily he offered it to me. I soon found out he hardly ever left his room. His name was Adam and he seemed nice enough, but I realized my house was for sleeping and that's all. Adam wanted nothing to do with me, or anyone else, and lived his own very private life.
Luckily meeting people was easy, as everyone had such a similar mindset. People from all over the world came here on hiatus to get away from reality or to find something missing. Whichever the case, friends could be found everywhere, and all very similar ages.
My first big night out was a Thursday. First having dinner and drinks with Chris at what we now deemed our local pub. We finished up in a nearby club.
“So what you’re saying is.” I started with a slur, “Is you could get any girl in this place.” I finished, looking at our newfound friend. His name was Brad, he was also from Australia, and just arrived yesterday.
“Obviously! Have you not seen these guns?” He said, with a flex of his arms and a quick grin, “I’m not sure if you’ve found out yet James, but this accent works wonders. Check this out.” And with that he turned around looking for a victim.
“This should be interesting.” Chris said, as he nudged me in the ribs gently.
“Interesting is probably the right word.” I said with a laugh.
We watched as Brad ambled, or maybe stumbled his way over to the nearest girl. Leaning in, he spoke to her softly in her ear, and she laughed in his face. She turned to walk away, Brad made one final attempt to try and stop her, but she was gone.
Turning back and walking back over to us he shrugged and flexed once more. “She’ll be back.” He said, full of confidence. Chris and I burst into laughter and each gave him a quick slap on the back.
“Don’t worry mate. There are plenty of fish in the sea.” I said.
“A fish is probably the only thing you could catch!” Chris added, falling into laughter once more.
“You jest, but you’ll see. I’ll catch the best damn fish you guys have ever seen” Brad slurred happily, as he walked back into the throng of people.
Obviously he was a man on a mission.
Taking his cue, Chris and I followed him. We flirted with any girl that walked past us and had a great time doing it. As I watched Chris talking to a girl nearby I turned, and saw a short girl that seemed to be looking in my direction. That was more than enough for me. Drunkenly I put on my best face, which I thought was dead sexy. Truthfully, it was probably closer to squinting with a crooked smile with some teeth showing, but I stumbled my way over happily.
“Hey. How’s it going?” I asked, in a deeper than usual voice as I tried to puff up my chest. Looking up at me, she smiled.
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