“I can see she’s stunned,” Franco, the stylist, says.
“Abby, you look amazing,” Denise says, almost reverently.
“I really do.” I laugh. “Franco, you are amazing.”
“I know, darling. Thank you.” He gives me a quick peck on the cheek. “It helps to have a remarkable canvas to start with. Whatever you’re doing tonight, whomever you’re doing it with, he’s going to be under your spell. You really are quite stunning.”
“Thank you,” I say, blushing.
“Ready?” Denise asks.
“As I’ll ever be.”
****
We arrive back at Sherri’s and manage to make it upstairs without running in to Shaun. Denise puts the finishing touches of minimal make-up on me, and after going through my purse and a few drawers, she hands me a small shoulder bag.
“The essentials,” Denise says. “Your phone, of course, and your ID and debit card. Along with lip balm, a pack of gum, and a few condoms.”
“Condoms?”
“As you said, just in case.”
“Oh, dear.” I notice that it’s nearly five, and wonder when Shaun had planned on us leaving for whatever he has in mind for tonight. “Denise, you’re sure you don’t mind, because I could…”
“Hey, we had a great time together today and we’ll have tomorrow as well. This will be a great evening for you. Who knew coming down to visit me would end up with you meeting the person who could potentially be your soul mate?”
I roll my eyes, not really buying into that whole idea as my little sister does. But hey, if it makes her happy to think that way, then good on her.
“Why don’t you go down and sit on the patio? I’m sure Shaun will be around soon to find you.”
“What are you going to do this evening? Do you have plans with Jim? Should I have Shaun drop me off at your place later? But then what about my rental?”
“Abby, chill. You can decide that later once you see where the night leads. There’s a spare key to my place in your bag, just in case. Shaun may have plans to bring you back here for a romantic night. Or better yet, he may have booked a room somewhere where…”
I gasp, thinking he wouldn’t be so bold, would he? “No way!”
“It’s always a possibility. Now, quit fretting and go out to the patio. Have a beer.”
I shake my head at her suggestion. No, I don’t want to have a beer. I want my mind clear and focused. I really do want to have a great evening with Shaun.
“And,” Denise starts. “To answer your question, yes, I’m going to Jim’s and cooking him dinner. We’re going to play like an old married couple and just stay in to watch a movie. I’m pretty sure I’ll be spending the night, but I’ll text you to let you know.”
“Thanks, Denise. You two enjoy.”
We make our way downstairs and through the kitchen. There’s no sign of Sarah or Shaun, or the dogs for that matter. It’s then I notice a note on the counter from Sarah, saying she took the dogs down to Shoreline Dog Park and would be back later.
“Do you want me to wait until you leave with Shaun before taking off?” Denise asks.
“No, it’s fine. You go on ahead and have a good time with Jim.”
We exchange hugs and good byes. Once she’s out the door, I go out to the patio to sit and relax, and process all that’s happened since my arrival. It’s hard to believe the twists and turns life offers. My little sister, in love! With her boss! And me, meeting Shaun. That’s certainly a curveball. A pleasant one, sure, but still… came out of nowhere.
Sylvia would say, that’s life. Thinking of her makes me want to call and check on how she’s doing, but that thought gets interrupted by the sound of the patio door sliding open.
I turn around and see Shaun walking toward me. I stand up and he stops in his tracks, eyes growing a little wider, lips curving into a sexy smile. That’s good, right? At least he’s not grimacing.
“You look amazing, Abby.”
I can’t help but blush and tell him thank you.
He stops right in front of me, reaching out to lift the ends of my hair over one shoulder. “You had quite a bit cut off. Makes you look so different.”
“It’s the bangs,” I say. “Do you like it?” I nervously push the bangs across my face.
“Yes. It all looks great. And those sexy little shorts really show off your legs.”
“That’s what Denise said. Who am I to argue with her fashion sense?” I chuckle.
“I certainly wouldn’t.” He takes my hand in his. “Ready to go?”
“Sure. Both Denise and Sarah are gone, so we’ll have to lock up.”
“Will do. We’re going to borrow Jeff’s SUV. It has four-wheel drive.”
“Oh, I meant to ask about your car. Did you get it running again?”
“Briefly. It barely made it to the shop. Turns out the water pump is shot, so they had to order that, and it won’t be in until Monday. Glad my sis has a few spares when it comes to vehicles.”
“How long were you planning to stay here?”
“Possibly to mid-week. Nothing definite planned. There was another instructor able to cover for me.” He glances at me. “You said you’re heading back Monday?”
“That’s the plan. So I’ll head back early and hopefully have a better time of it with the traffic. I have two clients I see on Tuesdays and a few pooches to handle.”
“Well then, let’s go make the most of our time here. Let me text Sarah so she knows the house will be empty and locked up.”
After sending a message to Sarah and locking the patio doors, he guides me through the house to the garage. He selects a FOB to a Toyota FJ Cruiser. After setting the alarm, we load up, and off we go.
“So, still no hint as to where we’re going or what we’re doing?” I happen to glance into the back seat and notice a blanket and a few bags. “Picnic?”
He grins. “Maybe. Hope you don’t mind, but we’ve got a bit of a drive. You’re welcome to be in charge of the music. There’s satellite radio, terrestrial, and probably a selection of CD’s.”
“Alrighty then,” I say. “Any preferences?”
“Nope. It’s all you.”
I look through the CD’s, not really seeing anything of interest, so I begin to scan through the satellite channels, settling on hits from the 80’s. Pat Benatar belts out “Invincible” and I can’t help but start singing along.
“Feel free to let it go,” Shaun says. “I already know what a great singer you are.”
“Thanks.” I smile. “Feel free to join.”
Shaun drives on. After a bit on the 101, he turns onto the 130 heading northeast.
“A foothills excursion?” I ask.
“More than that,” he says cryptically.
As we continue on, I notice signs for Mt. Hamilton, elevation, 4,216 ft. I turn to Shaun, eyes a bit wide, and say, “We’re going up the mountain?”
He turns my way for only a brief look and a smile.
“Okey dokey.”
Chapter Nine
After more than an hour up and down––mostly up––twisting and curving, I notice a structure in the distance and a white dome comes into view. Sure, I noticed the signs for the Lick Observatory, but didn’t really think we’d be heading all the way out here.
It’s nearly seven, still plenty of daylight left on this summer night.
“Have you been out here before?” I ask Shaun.
“Never. Always wanted to, and now I have a reason. Glad you didn’t get car sick.”
I laugh. “Me too. That was quite the drive. It’s so beautiful out here.” I don’t stop looking around left and right the entire time. The hills and wildflowers and vastness of the land are just breathtaking. I think I even see elk off in the distance.
“Lets you know you’re not in the city any longer,” Shaun says.
“That’s for sure. Although the streets of San Francisco certainly rival that drive.”
“I suppose so.”
&nb
sp; Shaun guides the vehicle into a parking spot and shuts it off. “There’s a guided tour and some other things to do while here. And yes, I thought we could enjoy a picnic dinner.”
“That sounds really nice. Too bad we won’t be able to see any stars. Still too light.”
“For now, but later…”
“We’re going to stay ‘til dark?” I say, probably sounding childish. I mean, he did drive all this way, and darkness is only a few hours away.
“That was the plan. They usually don’t do the tours after dark, but I know a guy, who knows a guy.”
“Ah, inside connections.”
“Sorta. There’ll be a couple guys up here doing some nighttime observations, and well, I didn’t think it’d hurt to have two more tag-a-longs. Lucky for us, neither did they. I said we wouldn’t do anything to get anyone in trouble.”
“Good, because I’d hate to have to place a call to Denise from the county jail.”
Shaun chuckles. “Don’t worry. I don’t plan to let that happen. Do you want to eat first?”
“Yes, please.”
We exit the vehicle and Shaun grabs the bags. “Mind carrying the blanket?” he asks.
“Not at all,” I answer, tucking it under an arm.
He leads us out to a clearing and puts the bags on the ground. “Will this do?”
“Certainly. I’m following your lead.”
He steps in front of me, reaching for the blanket. He leans in to kiss me, saying, “And do you trust me?”
I savor the kiss and answer, “Absolutely.”
“Lucky me,” he whispers and kisses me again. He spreads out the blanket and begins to unload the bags. After pulling out a small cloth cooler, he unpacks sandwiches, chips, potato salad, and cookies.
“Looks like all the basics,” I say.
“I try. I’ve got beer and water. I thought I’d have only one beer, that way I’d be good to drive back later.”
“Good thinking. I think I’ll have a beer now also.”
We make ourselves comfortable on the blanket, and even though there’s no shade from the sun, it’s pleasantly mild at this altitude. I grab what looks like a turkey and Swiss sandwich while Shaun goes for the roast beef. I’m surprised at how hungry I am as I devour the entire sandwich, a helping of salad and chips, then polish it off with two cookies—chocolate chip, of course. After finishing the beer, I open a bottle of water.
“Quite the appetite,” Shaun says. “Good to know you’re not one of those girls who’s self-conscious about eating in front of guys. Or who doesn’t eat at all.”
“Oh, no worries there.” I grin. “I’m not afraid of food.”
Nearly an hour passes as we linger over the food and conversation. And although the sun hasn’t set yet, dusk is definitely upon us. From our view on the mountain, the sky offers an array of orangey-pink hues that’s simply beautiful. A few tiny lights can be seen as the stars begin to make a showing.
“Would it be okay if we head inside before we get locked out?” I ask. “I could really use a bathroom.”
“Not a problem. Let me put all this away and we’ll seek out Tony, the guy who’s agreed to let us in tonight.”
“Have we already missed the guided tour and commentary?”
“Not sure. I don’t know what time they officially stop for the evening. Let’s go find out.”
I help Shaun pack up the supplies, and after he folds the blanket and stows it away, we head into the main building. The last group is just finishing up and we get a quizzical look from the guide.
“I’m sorry, our last tour has just ended,” she says.
“Oh, okay,” Shaun says casually. “We’ll just use the facilities if that’s okay.”
“Sure. Right around that corner.” As she points the way, I notice a guy hanging back from the crowd, giving Shaun a nod.
“Tony?” I whisper.
“Yep. Meet you back here when you’re done.”
“Sounds good.”
After relieving myself of what seemed like a half gallon of fluid, I peer out, looking for Shaun, hoping not to run into the guide. I notice Shaun standing with Tony near the far wall and no sign of anyone else. I make my way over and I’m introduced.
“Abby, Tony. Tony, Abby.”
“Pleased to meet you,” I say. “Thanks for the private tour.”
“Not a problem. Heard good things about Shaun from our mutual friend, Andy.”
“Thanks again, Tony,” Shaun says. “This isn’t going to be a problem with the guide? She let us know that the last tour was over.”
“No worries,” he says as he has us follow him through the nearby door. “She’s actually staying for a few more hours to do some tests of her own, and I told her I’d have guests.”
“What a nice way to put it,” I say.
“Have either of you ever been up here?” Tony asks.
Both Shaun and I reply no at the same time.
“Well then, you’re in for a treat. We’ve got a clear night, perfect for stargazing. Perfect viewing for the me––”
Before Tony can continue, Shaun breaks out into a coughing fit, interrupting whatever was going to be said next.
“Are you okay? Do you need some water?” I ask Shaun.
He promptly clears his throat and says, “No, I’m good now. Tony, please, lead on to the telescope.”
“O-okay,” he hesitantly starts. “Follow me.”
We continue on into an open space that leads us to the equipment. And an impressive sight, it is. “Wow!” I exclaim.
“Sure is something, isn’t it?” Tony says, chuckling. “Let’s go up the stairs and read the stars. Astrological signs are a hobby, among other things. Abby, what’s your birthday and sign?”
“Uh, Capricorn. Born January fourteenth, nineteen eighty-six.”
“Your constellation can be seen in Autumn. You’re loving, sensual, charitable and susceptible. Yet you’re also shy and lack self-confidence.”
“Sounds like me.”
“And you, Shaun?”
“Eh, can I take a pass?” he says as he seems to squirm.
“Oh, c’mon,” I say. “It’s all in fun.”
He gives in and says, “June twenty-eight, nineteen eighty-four.”
“You recently had your birthday!” I exclaim. The night is August twelfth.
He shrugs his shoulders as if it’s no big deal.
“Is it because it’s the big ‘three-oh’?”
“Nah, I haven’t let it start to get to me… yet.” He winks.
“Well, happy belated birthday,” I say.
“Thanks.”
“So,” Tony starts. “You’re a Cancer. You nurture. You’re also loving and sensual, highly caring, and generous. You’re usually a shoulder to cry on. Your constellation can be seen in Spring.”
“Sound about right for you?” I ask.
“Sure,” Shaun replies, shrugging his shoulders again.
“Not much into the astrology and horoscope thing?”
“Not really. I am what I am.”
“Hey, you two. Come on over to the eyepiece and take a look,” Tony says.
Shaun and I each take a turn, viewing the beauty of the nighttime sky. Tony goes on to explain a few technicalities of the telescope, as well as comparing it to some others at the facility, but it all goes over my head. A techy, I’m not.
Tony manually moves the telescope to give us a few different perspectives. It’s truly amazing what’s out there in our universe, and no doubt, beyond.
“Mind-boggling,” I say.
“Hard to fathom the scope of what’s out there,” Shaun says.
“I was just thinking that. Sometimes I have enough trouble processing the small world around me, let alone the greater beyond.”
“That’s why there are people like me and my colleagues,” Tony says.
As I look again through the eye piece, I notice a shooting star and excitedly proclaim my sighting.
“Better make a wish,
” Shaun says.
I produce a silly smile, close my eyes, and do just that.
Another thirty minutes later, we thank Tony very much and decide to say good night, leaving him to his work.
Once out to the Toyota, I ask Shaun if he’s sure he’s okay to drive.
“Not yet. I think I’d like to rest out here for a bit if that’s okay with you.” He reaches into the vehicle, grabbing the blanket.
“Um, sure,” I say, puzzled. Surely, he isn’t feeling anything from only one beer, right? And if he was tired, I could certainly drive. I try offering my services when Shaun shushes me with a finger to my lips. He then begins to draw me down onto the blanket. And while it’s very romantic, it also has my nerves sparking beyond belief.
“Um, Shaun, what’s going on?” Although I can tell you exactly what’s going on. My body is torn between wanting to crawl all over the sexy man next to me, and fleeing to the safety of the vehicle and heading back to Denise’s.
“It’s time for the show,” he says quietly.
We’re both on flat on our backs, and Shaun has one arm wrapped around me, pulling me close to his side while the other is holding one of my hands to his chest.
“Shaun, why––”
“Shhh. Abby, look up,” he whispers.
Slowly, I turn my head to peer up into the darkening sky. I see bright dots scattering the inky ceiling above us. Purple fades to pewter gray before becoming black as more stars make their appearance. A shooting star streaks across the entire expanse of sky, delighting me.
“Another shooting star!” I exclaim.
I turn my face to his, eager to see his reaction.
“Keep watching,” he says before briefly kissing my nose.
I face the sky once again, listening to the night sounds of distant insects and birds as they begin their nighttime serenade. Cool air settles around us and I can’t help a small shiver that races through me. Shaun must sense it, as he draws me in tighter to his body. I continue watching as he instructed, and another bright streak races above us.
Unexpected Adventures Page 8