Chapter 14
1118 Words
“Yesterday,” Derrick replied with a smile, “why the heck are you going to work on a Sunday?”
“It's a long story actually.” Henry's tone was laced with exhaustion that I would've pitied him if he hadn't willingly gone to work.
“I'm certain your secretary will be stressed to death.” He chuckled, “I don't think I'm capable of overworking my workers like you do.”
Henry rolled his eyes, his gaze drifting to mine for a surprisingly awkward stare.
I quickly averted my gaze from his, hoping my cheeks weren't flushed.
“I'll go continue my packing then,” that felt like a great way to cover up the awkwardness I felt.
“Packing? Are you going somewhere?” Derrick asked, staring from Henry to me.
“Yeah, we're going to Germany.” The thought of travelling made my tone come out all excited.
He raised a questioning brow at Henry. “Really? What do you want to do in Germany?”
“It's a business trip.” Henry explained quickly, like it was something that'd take long to fully explain. “We'll talk about it later.”
“A business trip? And Marie's following? Why?” His tone had a teasing edge to it when he said the last word.
“Is this really necessary?” Henry sounded bored of the conversation, like he always did.
“Hmm mmmh, why don't we meet up tomorrow night? When are you leaving?”
“Wednesday, and why can't we meet tonight?” Even while obviously exhausted, it was still evident how much closeness he and Derrick shared.
He didn't even mind sparing his rest time for his friend.
Cute… I guess.
“I've got some things to settle with Augusta,” Derrick said, and Henry nodded like he understood it all.
“Monday evening it is then.” He took a seat on the couch Derrick had stood up from, “I guess I'll try leaving work earlier then.”
“Yeah, or else you might possibly lose it with all the work you do.”
Realizing it was probably time for their friends chat and to avoid being the odd one, I decided to take my leave.
“I'll get back to packing then.” I stood up, turning to Derrick. “It's nice to see you back.”
“And it's nice to see your face my dear friend.” He winked at me, turning back to Henry as they began their chatting.
I left their presence, back to my room where I went back to the packing of my clothes.
After a while, I reached for my phone, not surprised to see a— no, some messages from mom.
Mom- I hope you've changed your mind. (2:03 p.m.)
Mom- I don't want to stop you from having fun sweetheart, I just want you to know that I love and care for you. (2:07p.m.)
Mom- I don't expect you to reply immediately, but I just want to know if you're busy (2:11p.m.)
Mom- I just searched the internet, and guess what, there are tons of German stores in America where you can see whatever things you'll see in Germany. Like what? -gasping face emoji- (2:16p.m.)
Mom- You won't believe that you don't need to leave your house and can see Germany from the comfort of your home through your phone. (2:19p.m.)
Mom- Reconsider your decision, okay? (2:20p.m.)
Me- I'll be fine mom, trust me.
She really wasn't going to let this matter end.
Mom- I gave birth to one stubborn daughter and you won't let me end up in the hospital. I'll call Caley, she's the smart one and she'll be able to talk some senses into your empty head.
Me- This really isn't necessary.
Jeez, she could overreact.
Soon, my ringtone echoed in the silence with Caley's name popping on the screen.
Mom really wasn't going to let this go.
“Hey.” I greeted after answering the call, and placing the phone close to my ear.
“Why am I just hearing from your mom that you're traveling to Germany?” She asked in obviously feigned annoyance.
“I was going to tell you guys, but obviously, mom had to be dramatic enough to beat me to it.” I explained, arranging more clothes into the bag.
“Why are you going there?” She asked, seeming to accept my excuse.
“It's a business trip for Henry, but I've been invited also as he says it might help with the divorce and all.”
Once I was satisfied with the clothes I'd packed inside the bag, I placed the call on speaker, dropping the phone on the bed so I could close the bag.
“He's taking you along because of your divorce?” Again, that suspicious tone.
“Why? What's been going on in that head of yours, huh?” I asked while trying to zip the bag shut which was a hassle as I'd packed way too many things.
Wasn't all these clothes too many for a two week trip?
Still, I tried zipping it.
“Nothing much actually.” It was obvious she was being partially truthful, but I ignored that.
“Okay,” I had finally put the zip up. “I'm sure you're going to try discourage me from going on this trip but—”
“I actually want you to go,” she cut me off, “it'll be an adventure, and you also need to be somewhere that isn't that house.”
“Really? I thought mom told you to try discourage me from going.” Why was she doing the opposite?
Very unlike Caley.
“Yeah, I'll talk to her about it and I can probably pray with her for your safe journey.”
“I just wish she won't worry so much.” I sighed, taking a seat on the bed beside the bag as I picked my phone.
“She only cares about you, that's why she's this worried.” Her tone was soft and comforting, just like she was.
There was a comfortable silence between us for a while which I broke. “Do you think we can all meet tomorrow so I can tell the rest about the trip?”
“I'm not sure actually, but I'll be available tomorrow.” She replied, seeming to check her schedule, “I can ask Charlotte if she'll be and I can also message Cherry.”
“Thanks a lot, that's why I love you.” I couldn't help smiling at how unpredictable Caley could be.
“Bleh. Bye.” We both giggled, then hung up.
- Writer
