Short Love Stories

For the Love of Austin - 3

FLOA = For the Love of Austin

. . .

After we both pigged out on French fries and grilled cheese sandwiches, we left the diner and got back on the road. So far Dally hasn't talked too much, other than basic communicating.

I'm not sure how we are supposed to find Austin, especially during the day when all these people were out and about.

"Hey! Since we don't have anyplace exactly that we need to look first, I know a gal at the other side of town who used to know Austin. Maybe she's seen him or something. I think they were a thing, once." I have to yell for him to be able to hear me over the waterfall of noises surrounding us.

He must not have heard me clearly enough, though, because he pulls over and takes his helmet off. "What did you say?"

I recite what I had explained earlier, taking my helmet off as well to breathe normally for a bit.

"Ehh, yeah, okay. Where exactly do I go?" He starts putting his helmet back on, signaling that my short break is nearly over.

"You got a map? My phone kinda sucks and can't do GPS," I explain. He surprisingly pulls out a map of the city and I point out where we need to go. It's a small makeup and beauty supply store built into a small apartment. Mia literally lives, and works, in that store. And she's an expert with makeup and absolutely loves her job.

We used to be good friends until she was forced to move away. But when she eventually moved back, we still didn't talk much. I know she'll recognize me. Somehow, we still have a strong bond.

. . .

I almost got sick from the long ride to Mia's place. I couldn't relax at all and the loud noises were killing me. I just couldn't handle much more of this motorcycle business. Thankfully we arrived just at that moment of complete done-ness. I jump off as soon as the bike stops, and sit down on the curb, trying not to puke.

"That bad? Or are you just a Drama Queen?" Dally jokes as he takes off his helmet and jacket to reveal a red flannel with a worn t-shirt underneath that had a picture of a cat on it.

"Yes it was pretty bad, I don't like bikes," he offers his hand to help me up and I take it. "And is that a cat?" I mean, it obviously was but somehow it struck me as odd seeing a cat on him. Somehow.

"Say what?" He asks.

"Uh, never-mind that, lets go!" I suddenly get very excited to see my good friend, Mia, again. It's been a few years.

I burst through the doors and hold one open as I run in for Dally, but he had stopped at the entrance. "Do I have to come in?" He looks as if he wanted to hide from all the people.

"Uhh, yes, it's your brother were looking for here." What's his problem?

"But," he points to the sign and inside the store, "it's all girly stuff..." He finishes in a tiny voice.

I roll my eyes. "Be a man," I order as I drag him in by his arm. He follows me with his arms crossed and his head hung as we reach the counter. I hope she's working...

"Athena!!" I hear someone squeal as they run towards me and tackle my body with a hug. "It's been so long!" She says as she finally releases me.

"Wow! Your place looks amazing, and so do you!" I wink. She was wearing a beautiful cream dress with a wide, leather belt around her waist and an adorable jeans jacket.

"So what brings you here? I know you wouldn't surprise-visit me and bring your boyfriend," she suddenly got real quiet, "are you on a secret mission...?"