A Cyber Affair

by Lonz Cook

  “Miami isn’t in the middle of nowhere, you know.”

  “You’re flying to Miami?”

  “I don’t know for sure. We haven’t decided where we should meet. I think we’ll talk about it the next time we’re online.”

  “Do you have a place in mind — maybe a city where you have friends or relatives?” Valerie asked with concern when she saw Tiffany’s sincerity about meeting her online interest. “Do you have people you can trust outside of San Francisco?”

  “I do, but I don’t think I want them around. I’m feeling positive about Manny. We have a connection I haven’t felt in years. I mean, it’s better than any I’ve had since my marriage.”

  “I remember how that turned out,” Valerie smirked. “I’m concerned for your safety.”

  “Thanks, you’re a great friend, but I feel I have to meet Manny, and I have to trust my intuition on this.”

  “Will you at least take every precaution? I mean let the world know where you are and who you’re with. We should have a picture of Manny, a number to contact him, a number for the hotel you’re staying in, your travel arrangements, and of course, take mace.”

  “That’s damn good advice, Valerie,” Tiffany admitted while she reflected on Valerie’s request. It was something she needed to consider. Trust or not, those stories of hope she had heard about didn’t always lead to happy endings. “You’re a great friend.”

  Tiffany and Valerie waved farewell and blew each other a kiss. They went separate ways when they left the bar. On the way home, Tiffany pulled her cell from her purse, looked at the time, and calculated what time it was in Florida. She dialed Manny because Valerie’s issue was relevant to her future travel. Manny answered as her call woke him.

  “Hey, Tiffany, what’s up?”

  “Something important, can you talk?”

  Manny fought his sleep weary body. “Yeah, sure,” and changed his position from lying to sitting. “What’s on your mind?”

  “I want to make sure we’re doing this. I mean, meeting. I don’t want to go through all the scenarios in my mind if we’re not going to do it.”

  “We’re doing it. As a matter of fact, I was thinking of making it real easy and just coming to you.”

  “No I don’t want it here. Like we said it has to be a neutral location with no friends trying to influence us.”

  “I agree. Okay, so what can I do to help you understand I’m serious?” Manny questioned.

  “You can send me a picture of you, the latest picture and your social security number.”

  “Hey, wait. I’m not sure about the social security number, but a picture I can do. Why do you want my social security number?”

  “So if anything happens to me, someone can track your whereabouts.”

  “Oh, so now fear and caution are coming along on our trip? I get it. Let me say this, I’ll share what you share.”

  “What?”

  “I’ll share what you share. A picture, phone number, friends’ contact info, social security numbers, and the works.”

  Tiffany didn’t expect his response, but was happy that he wanted to give her everything she was willing to share. “We’re going to share all of our information so if something happens to either of us, we’re confident that we can be found.”

  “Agreed, so it’s a deal. I’ll send my list tomorrow.”

  “I’ll send mine, too. I feel better, don’t you?”

  “I trusted you from the start, but if this makes it easier for us to relax and enjoy, I’m all for it.” Manny yawned, “I have to get up in a few. Good night, Tiffany.”

  “Good night, Manny.”

  Chapter 32

  Manny finished his workday, worked out, and then went to B.B.King’s Blues Club, the place he had met Frieda. He watched others having fun and started a conversation with a guy at the bar. “I’m trying to select a city that’s fun, offers nightlife, entertainment, and sightseeing for a weekend.”

  “You mean a place you can be safe, have the time of your life, and make some memories?”

  “That sounds exactly like what I want, but I can’t think of any location that’s the total package. You know, I need a place where there is balance. Somewhere that night after night there’s never a boring moment and if you need to escape to somewhere quiet, that’s available too.”

  “Dude, that sounds like Vegas.”

  “Las Vegas. I didn’t think of there. I was all over the place. I bet she’ll like the idea.” Manny gave the guy’s shoulder a friendly tap. “Thanks, man.”

  “No problem, bro. You’ll have a blast.”

  “I’m sure we will.” Manny finished his drink and sent Tiffany a text. “Vegas?” He went home and researched the city for its dynamic entertainment and featured activities.

  ***

  The next morning, Tiffany awoke to a text alert, picked up her cell phone for a text from Manny which she quickly opened. All it read was “Vegas?” She texted back:

  “That sounds wonderful. I didn’t think of Vegas. We’ll talk about it later. Will you be online or should I call you?”

  Manny received the response when he went to his locker. He answered “Call me when you’re free.”

  It was almost 9:00 pm when Manny’s cell phone rang.

  “Hey Tiffany, glad you called.”

  “I think Vegas is a great idea. It sounds awesome and I’ve never been there.”

  “So it’s a first for you. It’s been years since I’ve been there. What shall we do?” Manny asked, and then recanted. “Here’s what I think we should do. Let’s meet there on a Friday evening, and for safety we can get separate rooms at the same hotel.”

  “I think separate rooms are a good idea. We can manage that.”

  “Great, I’ve researched events and shows we can attend or maybe we should play it by ear? There are so many shows to choose from that I think being spontaneous could be better.” Manny looked at his phone calendar, “How about Wednesday after next?” he paused, “Will that do?”

  Tiffany got up from her couch and walked to the kitchen wall near the fridge where she kept her hanging calendar. “I think that’s a little soon. I need to let my job know I’m taking off that weekend so, it’s all about scheduling,” she counted the days lead she needed, “I think three weeks will do. Let’s do the following Wednesday. I am sure I’ll be ready then.”

  “Okay, three weeks away. We can save a few bucks for the flight. I’m okay with it.” Manny shook his head in agreement. “Good timing.”

  “I’m so looking forward to our first weekend. I know we’ll enjoy it. When should we start scheduling our flights?”

  “How ‘bout now? I’ll call you when I have everything up online.”

  “Sounds like a plan. I’ll search for my flight and hotel.” Tiffany disconnected the line and got busy pricing flights and hotels. This is exciting, she paused, I haven’t been this excited since I went on my honeymoon.

  ***

  Manny found great airline and hotel prices for his trip. He Skyped Tiffany and sent his plans for her to review. When Tiffany logged on to Skype, she reviewed his message, looked for flights and responded with her own possible travel itinerary. The closest they could coordinate, would have her arrive either an hour early or three hours later than Manny. She started a video chat.

  “Hey, are we doing the right thing?” she asked.

  “We are, I at least feel we are. I’m excited aren’t you?” She saw him smile. “After everything I’ve read about Vegas, we’re in for a great time. It’s changed since I was there years ago.”

  “I love the idea of meeting in Vegas, I’ve heard so much about it.”

  “Yes, this should be great for us; no friends, no influences, just me and you and whatever we can get into.”

  “I like that idea. So you’re flying in at three that afternoon?” Tiffany asked for confirmation.

  “For me, that’s leaving at a great time. What abo
ut your flight? You didn’t share the details of which flight you chose.”

  “Either I get there before you and wait an hour, or arrive three hours after you. I was thinking I’d take the first option, get there early and maybe we can share a cab to our hotel.”

  “Yes, that sounds awesome. Did you choose a hotel?”

  “I like Treasure Island. Do you think it’s okay?”

  “Sure, I’ll make my reservation and see if I can get a room close to yours. I’m glad you selected Treasure Island. I remember it being an awesome hotel and casino.”

  Tiffany and Manny set their travel plans and communicated over the next two weeks. They explored Las Vegas websites and agreed to attend Cirque du Soleil shows, a music concert, visit dance clubs and even identified which restaurants they might enjoy together. There was such a buildup of excitement that they forgot to share their safety information from their earlier conversation.

  Chapter 33

  On travel day Manny woke earlier than usual. Anxiety got the best of him. By the end of today, I will finally see the woman who has held my attention all these months, he checked his luggage for the third time to ensure he had packed all the proper attire. He went through his home, secured everything and left instructions for Suzie to follow while she stayed in his apartment. He went to his desktop and read a few of Tiffany’s emails before driving towards Fort Lauderdale Airport.

  Manny turned off of the expressway to Fort Lauderdale and made a quick stop at a coffee shop. He purchased a Danish and coffee, and then drove to the airport’s extended parking lot. He sat in his truck eating breakfast, imagining Tiffany’s touch, remembering her voice, and reflecting on her mannerisms that he observed via Skype. Manny left his truck, took the shuttle to the terminal, and checked in for his flight. When he entered the plane, he had magazines, a DVD movie, and his laptop to entertain him during the five hour flight. His nerves had him filled with mixed feelings and he couldn’t find a point of relaxation. Within the first hour, he pulled out the DVD and watched “Sleepless in Seattle,” with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. He compared his new adventure to that of the movie characters. At the end of the movie, he realized, “How things have changed, yet remain the same.”

  ***

  Tiffany finalized her checklist. Let’s see; toiletries, dresses, shoes, nightie – just in case, shower cap, shorts, a couple of tops and my bikini. I think it’s all here. Her doorbell rang while she was securing her carry-on luggage.

  “Who is it?” she yelled, while she approached the door rolling her small suitcase behind her.

  “Trevor and Trevor, Attorneys at Law. I’m here for Tiffany

  Miles,” the voice behind the door answered.

  Tiffany looked through the peephole and saw a gentleman holding a briefcase. She recognized the name from the television commercials about finding a lawyer after a car accident. She cracked the door with the chain lock securely in place.

  “I haven’t been in an auto accident.”

  “No, ma’am, you haven’t. Are you Tiffany Miles?” Mr. Trevor said.

  “Yes, I am. How can I help you?”

  “I’m here to deliver a letter. Can I come in?”

  Tiffany hesitated and looked at the gentleman once more before opened the door.

  “Sure, come in. Please have a seat,” she said and pointed at the sofa. “What brings you here again?”

  The lawyer opened his briefcase, reached inside, and pulled out a document. “This is the will from your deceased uncle.”

  “Wait, you mean my uncle? Oh my God!!! My uncle Teddy died?” Tiffany burst into tears and covered her mouth with both hands.

  The attorney stood, “I’m afraid there’s been a misunderstanding. I’m actually referring to Mister Robert Henry Miles, your ex-husband’s uncle.”

  “You scared me. Why didn’t you say that in the first place? Okay, I heard he died. He was a very nice man. Too bad my ex-husband inherited whatever from him. I hope he loses every dime.”

  “I can’t disclose what your husband inherited, but I’m here to give you this check. It’s the last thing I have to do to complete his request.” The lawyer pulled another envelope from his briefcase, with the name Tiffany Miles handwritten on the front. “According to the will, he left you a considerable sum of money.” Tiffany opened the envelope, unfolded the enclosed letter and read the handwritten note.

  Tiffany,

  My nephew may be a lot of fun, but I know that sometimes he can be bothersome. I guess you could consider him a work in progress. Hang in there with him because he’s not always the sharpest knife in the drawer. The one good thing he did in his life, was marry you. I appreciate how you look after him. Please make use of this gift to make life enjoyable and hopefully you can increase it for your future.

  Love Always,

  Robert

  Tiffany retrieved the check, looked at the sum and fell into her seat with her eyes wide. The amount of $250,000.00 overwhelmed her. She jumped to her feet grabbed the lawyer, yanking him from his seat like a child grabbing a rag doll, gave him a hug, cried out, “Thank you!!” and tried to escort Mr. Trevor to the door.

  “Wait, you have to sign here before I leave. It’s to confirm delivery.” Mr. Trevor pulled out the document and placed it on the coffee table. He grabbed a pen from his briefcase and pointed to the highlighted area requiring her signature. Tiffany followed instructions and signed where he directed.

  “Now I can leave. Enjoy your money,” Mr. Trevor instructed.

  “Just in time for Vegas,” Tiffany laughed.

  “Gambling isn’t a very wise way to invest your money. If you’d like I could recommend...”

  “Not to gamble. It’s to meet Mr. Right.” Tiffany smiled and opened the door for Mr. Trevor to exit.

  “Have fun in Vegas. Here’s my card if you need any legal service.”

  “Thank you,” Tiffany said as she closed the door and jumped for joy. She reflected on her ex-husband’s note and the twenty-five dollar check. “Look - whose laughing now!”

  ***

  Tiffany rushed to Valerie’s car for her ride to the airport. “Hey, Valerie, thanks for taking me.”

  “You’re welcome. I can’t let you go, without you giving me some info about the guy you’re meeting. Remember, women have been murdered by men they met online.”

  “Okay, okay, okay. I’ll give you his cell number and we’ll be staying at Treasure Island. I have my own room. You can catch me there if you need to, but something tells me I’ll be fine.”

  “I hope so, but there are crazy people online. Murder is no joking matter.”

  “Valerie, we’ve had this conversation. Think positive for me, will you? I like this guy. He seems very nice and I need to take this chance. Can’t you be supportive?”

  “Yes, I can support you. But if anything happens, just know I’m on my way.”

  “You’re the best. Oh, and by the way, remember that box I got from Mr. Asshole?”

  “The torn pictures and the twenty-five dollar check?”

  “I got more than he can imagine. A lawyer came by and settled the last part of my ex-husband’s uncle’s will. Let’s say I will have a quarter of a million in the bank soon.”

  “What? Are you serious?!” Valerie screamed.

  “I am and I’m happy for two reasons now. Meeting Manny and finally being financially secure.”

  “Don’t get any crazy ideas in Vegas, my friend. No gambling.”

  “I don’t take unnecessary chances with money, remember? That’s something you do.”

  “You’re right.”

  They arrived at the airport’s passenger drop-off. Before leaving the car, Tiffany wrote Manny’s cell number, gave her the hotel reservations and also a list of places they planned to visit and shows they wanted to attend. Tiffany kissed Valerie on the cheek.

  “Thanks again and don’t worry.”

  Tiffany left the car with her carry-on and walked i
nto the airport. She found her terminal gate and paced back and forth, frowning. She looked at the gate and then at her cell phone and contemplated, What the hell am I doing? Once I’m on the plane, it’s almost a two hour flight. I can’t get off in mid-flight and I sure can’t make the plane turn around. What if he’s a serial killer like Valerie suggested? What if he isn’t anything like he appeared online? Tiffany heard the gate attendant announce the flight and boarding instructions.

  Chapter 34

  Tiffany viewed cloud formations through the plane’s porthole and remembered about how Manny influenced her to go against her own rule; local men only. Earlier in the year, she stood firm and had no intention of meeting a man who lived on the other side of the country. She shook her head left to right in disbelief that she was on a flight to meet Manny. I hope I’m doing the right thing. Tiffany did a mental check of expectations and reflected how Manny met all except distance. She weighed pros and cons, agonized over success and failure. When the flight attendant inquired if she wanted a drink, Tiffany retrieved her purse and ordered, “Red or white wine, it doesn’t matter.”

  Tiffany sat there fighting skepticism and confusion. She was happy that she was following Tom’s advice about connecting with the man she admires, but feared doom as she envisioned scenarios of death or dismay in Las Vegas. He could kill me, chop my body into small pieces, bag me and throw me in the nearby dam, or bury me in the desert. Tiffany shook her head left to right in disbelief again. He could rape me and hold me hostage. I may become his sex slave. That made her smile, I need a man with a strong sex drive. I know he has one, she giggled. She made an effort to relax while she repeated conversations with Manny in her mind. She recalled Tom’s advice, Valerie’s surprise engagement, and the “kiss-my-ass-you-deserve-less” letter from her ex-husband. All these things had led her down this path of chance. But what if this visit goes wrong? Her tapping foot and slight rock, her nervous energy distracted the stranger next to her. He asked, “Is this your first flight? You seem nervous.”