A Million Ways To Spend Our Time

Part Eleven: Wanton World Without Lament

Jim and I continued our back-and-forth letters over the next month. He advised me not to worry about Pamela even opening any of his mail or suspecting anything, and eventually I stopped worrying about that. We gave each other poetic criticism, and found it to be an nice way to truly speak and communicate beyond the limits of spoken words. September 2nd was approaching fast, and I still needed to find out from Mr. Chin whether I could go to England or not. I also needed to get my passport, which was something I had never done before. I didn't have the heart to even mention to Jim that I wouldn't really have any spending money, and just tried to remain in the moment with my focus. Realizing that I had never been this excited about checking the mailbox every evening in my life, I made my way towards my apartment door. I was extremely glad to be home from work, and I had made another $100 of tips that week. Saving money was coming a lot easier to me with this Europe trip in mind. Aurora was delighted about the amount I had racked up, and delighted that she was able to to work and see Europe at the same time. I knew she wouldn't feel right going without me, so I kept hoping for the best. I was planning on asking Mr. Chin again the following Monday, praying that the odds would be in my favor. As I sat down to write Jim another letter, I realized just how disappointed I would be if he disappeared from my life, and if I didn't get to go with them.

Monday afternoon, I walked into The Lucky U heading straight for Mr. Chin. "Hello, Alana." He smiled at me, apparently glad to see me. "Hi, Mr. Chin." "Hey, I forgot to tell you yesterday. I talked to one of your coworkers and she is willing to help you out. In other words, I can let you be off for a week. Does that work for you?" I was very tempted to run up and give him a hug. "Yes, that's fantastic. Thank you so much. And her too." I smiled, grinning from ear-to-ear. Mr. Chin smiled. "You are a hard worker, Alana. One of my best. Figured I could return the favor for your special occasion, huh? Where was it you said you wanted to go to?" "Europe. With some friends of mine." "Ah. Sounds lovely. I'm sincerely happy for you." "Thank you, Mr. Chin. Let me know if you need me to work extra this week or anything like that." He smiled once again. "You know I know I can always count on you." I excitedly began my work duties, desperately eager for Jim to call that night so I could tell him the great news.

After my shift had finally ended, I got into the car. I was so ready to be home and excited about Mr. Chin's news that I nearly sped the entire way there. I also couldn't get the giant grin off of my face as I made my way up the steps towards my front door. Once inside, I took a shower and found myself something to drink. I was just about to head to bed when the phone rang. "Hello?" "Hey, Alana. I know I usually don't call at this hour, but I knew you were working late and I couldn't sleep. Did you hear back from Mr. Chin?" I was very glad to hear from Aurora, but was slightly disappointed it wasn't Jim. "Sure did." My grin increased as I spoke. "He said I could go for a week." "Seriously?! Yes! I'm thrilled!" "I know, right?! So am I. I don't know how I'll be able to sleep." Aurora chuckled. "You will. Have you heard from Jim yet?" "No. Just you so far." "Hmm. Well, he will call soon, I'm sure. I wonder what he will say about your good news." "I agree. I practically ran to the phone." "I'm sure you did. Anyway, I'll let you get to bed. I'm going to try to sleep again myself. Goodnight, Alana. I'm very happy for you." "Thank you. I'm overjoyed. I'll talk to you again soon." "Okay. Goodnight." "Goodnight." As we hung up, I sighed and shook my head, unable to believe my luck.

The following day consisted primarily of art classes, which meant smooth sailing for me. I was getting better at creating pottery, including several cups and bowls of my own. Glad to have developed yet another artistic medium, I left my last class with a smile on my face. Once I had entered my driveway, I checked the mailbox to see if anything had come in from Jim. Aside from the bills, I did find one small envelope addressed to me in Jim's handwriting. I waited until I got into the house to open it. With a grin on my face, I began to read his letter to me. Dear Alana, I wish you were here yet you're better off there. Nevertheless, I miss you. Let me know what you think of this poem. Sorry for not calling as often. It's been very hectic lately. I will the next chance I get. Hope your art is going well. I expect a new poem after you read this. JM. Jim always had a way of taking me away from where I currently was mentally, and soon geographically. I decided to complete all my house cleaning chores and take a bath. As I soaked, I went over Jim's poem in my head.