That Wasn't Supposed To Happen

▸[PART TWENTY-ONE] BON VOYAGE

 [PART TWENTY-ONE] BON VOYAGE

N:48 C:42 A:21 H:19 L:17 C:12

2042

When the suitcase begins to overflow, I know I've packed too much. I close the case and leap onto it. It swooshes across the floor which makes me chuckle. I tug on the metal zipper and curse when it doesn't budge.

"You will close whether you like it or not! I need all these things because I'm a mother who isn't coping with the loss of her second baby to college. You know what? I should have stuck with Australia."

When my phone begins to ring, I climb off the case and race across the room. An unknown number appears on the screen which makes me frown.

I answer the call and press the device to my ear.

"Hi Charlie, I'm Ashley from Surf & Co."

"Hey Ash, it's been awhile."

"Don't remind me!" She laughs. "I'm the manager at Surf & Co now."

"Wow, that's amazing!"

"I know right." I can imagine her smiling.

"The reason for the call is that I'm searching for a pro surfing instructor. I have new talent that needs their asses kicked. Would you be interested in the position? Of course, I'd pay you well for it."

"I um, I don't know, Ash. It's just that I have grown teenage children who are in high school and moving to college." I sigh.

"Just think about it! I will always be happy to take you on. You're one of the best surfers I've come across and I need you."

"Thank you, Ash."

"No worries! When you have some free time, you should come and visit, we miss you down here."

"If I ever do, I'll be sure to come back for a visit." I smile.

"You better! I'll let you go, but make sure you think it over."

"I will, thank you! Bye."

I toss the phone onto the bed and bite my lip. Even though I'd love to move, I know that I can't do it. Lydia will be in college soon and I won't do what happened to me.

Noah walks into the room and raises his eyebrow.

"What was that phone call about?"

"Nothing." I look away. "Can you help me close the case?"

"Yes." He nods.

I sit on the case while Noah manages to easily zip it. He helps me up and I tug him into a hug. He wraps his arms around my waist and kisses my forehead.

"Are you ready? Hunter is freaking out downstairs."

"Yes, I'm ready." I nod.

We go downstairs to find the three arguing with each other, Cora is sitting on the couch rolling her eyes. I think she might be my favourite but obviously, I don't have favourites.