I had planned to spend the afternoon at the beach. Instead, I sat on the edge of the hotel bed, watching the clock.
Clara had said she was unavailable for the rest of the day. I had no reason to believe the answer had anything to do with my review. I still kept interpreting it as a consequence.
I got dressed and went out alone.
The beach was less crowded than the guidebook promised. I rented a chair and left my shoes beside it. For twenty minutes, I managed to read. Then a group of college students ran through the shallows, shouting over the waves, and I found myself wishing I had someone to laugh with.
I could have messaged Lena. I could have sent her a photo. Instead, I turned my phone off and went into the water.
The waves were cold enough to take my breath. I stood with water arou
