Flight Risk

44 - Calling Cardwell

Although our room didn't have the softest mattress I'd experienced, it was quite cozy to melt into after the emotional discussions and tourist activities had sucked my energy dry today. Part of me hoped it clouded over or the aurora would rest like I wanted to tonight. But I also knew that was selfish, given that seeing them here would be an incredible experience for Caleb.

The door to the room clicked open as he stepped back inside with his tablet in hand.

"Do you mind if I call my mom in here? The lobby seemed busy."

The hotel only had one common area, which served as a breakfast staging area, hang-out spot, and reception. Given that there were only about ten economy-sized rooms in this entire facility, it made sense, but wasn't convenient for times like this as a group of tourists had taken to drinking and playing cards in the lobby when we'd returned.

"Go for it."

"It won't bother you?"

"Nah, I'm curious to see how much of a sweetheart you are around her."

He settled onto the stiff metal chair with fuzzy brown patterned upholstery that resembled one of my friend's homes growing up in the 2000s. With his device in hand, he didn't appear comfortable.

"You can use the bed. Unless you're afraid she'll glimpse me," I teased.

He didn't even flinch. "Not at all. You look so cozy that I'd feel bad about disturbing you."

"If anything, I'd be cozier with you to snuggle into."

As he fought a smile, he ran his fingers through his dark hair. "It wouldn't be too much to meet her after everything today?"

I shook my head, which put a giddy grin on his bow-shaped lips. I couldn't help but kiss him again before we found a semi-upright position for the video chat. As I leaned against him, the scent of pine and citrus calmed me. But were we too close? Given that she met her husband during a holiday romance, I hoped she'd be okay with witnessing some innocent snuggling.

My palms sweated as Caleb's tablet rang. At least the photo icon in the centre gave me an idea of whom to expect and a name to put with the face. Melissa radiated friendliness from her wide smile and sparkling green eyes, like Caleb's. She seemed nothing like my mom, which was a bit of a relief.

Soon she appeared on screen with the bright sun illuminating the honey brown hair. From the background noise of bird chatter and hum of insects, she must have been outdoors somewhere, and boy was I envious.

"Hi Mum." Caleb's shoulders were tenser than usual, so I squeezed his hand.

"Caleb," she grinned, drawing out the 'a,' with her accent. "And you must be Audrey. I'm Melissa, Caleb's mum. Such a pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise, Caleb has only wonderful things to say about you."

"Does he now? Someone is looking for brownie points by being a doting son."

"With you or me?" I asked.

"Both I suspect. He's always been too clever for his own good."

I laughed, already at ease with this woman. She had a great sense of humour and seemed easygoing. "I quite like that he's clever. He talked me into a fake relationship before our plane even landed."

"A fake relationship?" Melissa's hair swayed just past her shoulders as she cocked her head to the side. "Caleb, that doesn't sound like you at all."

He scratched at the back of his neck and cleared his throat. "Her ex was going to be at Vince's wedding, and she was worried about her family, and... it's the most impulsive thing I've ever done, but I don't regret it."