Fifty Shades Hollow

Untitled Part 3

Pulling me aside, Augusto casually asks me if I know another language.

Puzzled by his comment "French." Where is he going with ths?

Stepping onto the platform

I'm not going to bother with French. I see a wide-opened girl willing to experience the world. She's honest, open" pausing while pinching his goatee. " I don't know what will happen from here. This I want made clear Anastasia is a lovely girl. My wife has her number."

Stunned by his comments. To think I would hurt her. "Sir, I would never do anything unjust."

Is this what happens when people people talk on trains? Paranoia? Is this the payback? It's no fucking wonder I keep my mouth shut.

"No, son, Chris, what I'm trying to say is that Anastasia. She's fledgling, I can see you have years on her and are not Canadian as you state."

Again stunned feeling the need to be combative "Augusto I don't know what you...."

Only to be cut off. "Son, I am a Professor in Rome teaching Evolutionary Linguistics. I suggest you place your words to me carefully."

Still feeling combative "Then why sit in coach? Aren't you better suited for First Class, considering who you are and where you're from?"

"Son, let's not deviate from what I said. I'm not going to the hounds. All I'm saying is that Luciana has Anastasia's number and by, now sure her I'm her email address. Luci, loves people. You should see her contact list." I can tell he's trying to be friendly and falling flat. Sighing. I hear him give my answer "My wife and I sit don't in first-class because the most interesting people can't afford the price."

I stand with him.. And laugh... he's slight in height, got this Stalin goatee and wild gray wiry Einstein hair. Yet I'm the one with a cane. "Augusto. You have my word I'm not out to harm her or anyone for that matter."

"Son, I just needed you to know. She may be travelling alone, but she's not alone. I'd say catch up with her. She may open your eyes"

Turning to him. "Why would you say that?"

"By your tone you are guarded and tense as if saying too much will show your pain. Also, because, young man I know this is most fun you've had since you arrived and suspect there's a lot to see when looking thru her eyes."

Looking at him, I can't help grin from ear to ear. "You sound like shrink."

Returning my smile "I've been known to counsel the occasional student or facility member."

I start laughing. Walking up to him I shake his hand. "Sir, it was a pleasure to meet you and your lovely wife."

Reaching into his wallet he pulls out a business card. "Son, if you need anything. A meal, a place to rest your head. Anything at all, I'm only but a phone call away. Now go. See if what her plans are in Milan and if she's open to having you spend time with her."

I leave.

Nodding to Luciana as we walk by, I feel her arm on me she stopping me. Looking down to her. "Son, you should do something about your overgrown hair. You have a nice smile. No need to hide behind a beard."

Patting her hand I look up and see Augusto looking at me. Patting her hand reassuringly. "I'll look into that."

I see Anastasia ahead, well maybe not her since on her backpack is the kind you see hikers using. "Sorry Luciana I need to go." That damn thing is too large for her tiny build. "Ana." she doesn't hear me "Ana!" I say louder, only to still be ignored. I'm going to lose her in the city, finally I shout "Anastasia!" I can feel other people staring at me yet my attention if focused on her. I can only walk so fast. Fuck me I can't believe this is my life. Not even thirty years of age and using a cane.

Thank god she turns around and I see a smile and her walking toward me.

"Chris, what's up?"

"I was wondering what you were going to be doing? After all we're Milan? What are your plans?" I feel out of breath by having to hustle.

"Well, Chris.... First things first. I'm going to find a little bar or cafe. Have a gin & tonic and look for a room that I can use for the next few nights."

"Wait. Are you telling me you don't have reservations, at all? You do realize it's mid-June, height of tourist season?"

"That much is true. Okay, admittedly I thrive in the unknown, plus it's a Tuesday. I'm sure I can find a room and if push comes to shove and I'm shit out of luck, I can always find a hostel to crash in."

Hearing her says those words terrifies me. Hostel. After Elliot had me watch the first movie, I can't imagine anyone ever consider using one of those places. The word alone elicits terror. Jesus Fuck, I can plop down my credit card anyfucking where and get the best suite.

"Tell you, Chris let's find a cafe that has internet. We can have a drink while I look for accommodations."

I heard her yet can't believe what she's saying. She doesn't have internet, and suspect at best sportage phone useage. Catching a shrewd eye toward her. "Don't look at me like that Chris. I know how to travel as a student."