Proof that Tony Stark has a Heart

Chapter 2

My first day in Malibu began with a long run across the beach at six in the morning. Because of conflicting time zones, I woke up obscenely early and made the most of it, donning shorts and a t-shirt and heading out into the early morning sunshine. I wasn't the only one about, and I garnered several waves from fellow runners or surfers, taking advantage of the near-emptiness of the beachfront. It made me glad my hotel was where it was; the beach was within five minutes' walking distance, and from what I gathered from the map in my hotel room, it was only a short distance from most other things, such as the shopping mall and the city center. After my run, I went back to my hotel room and spent an entertaining ten minutes figuring out how to work the shower. Clean and in fresh clothes, I took advantage of the inclusive breakfast served by the hotel, going down to the restaurant and eating my fill from the open buffet.

"Don't suppose you could recommend anything entertaining to do around here? It's my first day," I asked the girl behind the reception desk, who blushed faintly, giggling.

"Well, the city's always nice in the early morning. It's probably best to stay inside between about noon and three, with that fair skin of yours," she added in concern, eyeing my pale arms and face. I smiled ruefully, nodding in acceptance. "Um, there are surfing lessons on the beach if you're interested, and a company down at the docks does trip out to swim with the tropical fish, but you have to book in advance for that. Other than that, I'd say just walk or get a taxi to the city, look around, and see what interests you. I can guarantee there's something for everyone around here," she told me brightly, smiling.

I smiled back, nodding in thanks.

"Wandering it is," I declared with a grin, making her giggle. "Thanks for the help. Have a nice day."

I left through the hotel doors, declining the doorman's offer of a taxi, and turned in the direction I knew — at least, I hoped — would lead me to the city center. Hands in my shorts pockets, I allowed myself to enjoy the scenery as I walked; it was so very different from England and what I was used to. I squinted in the light, making a mental note not to forget my sunglasses next time, and crossed a busy road near the city center and the crowded streets. I didn't know where to look as I was confronted by shops selling just about everything imaginable, and suddenly my Gringotts card was burning a hole in my pocket. I smirked, remembering the numbers on my portfolio I had skimmed through the night before. I could more than afford to splurge a little.

.-.

By early afternoon, I was obeying the receptionist's advice and staying inside, which had the minor downside of placing me in the enormous shopping mall in the center of the city. I already had several bags hanging off my arms, full of both things for myself and gifts to take back home; at least I didn't have to worry about fitting it all in my suitcase to travel home. There was just far more variety than I was used to, especially having to stick mostly to Diagon Alley. I rarely got the opportunity to shop in London, but I thought I'd have to start when I got home; muggles had better fashion sense than wizards.

I paused outside a shop, suddenly struck with a thought; I didn't think I had any club-appropriate clothes with me. I'd never been to a club before, and I doubted any of my clothes were suited for it. Most of what I owned was very casual or very smart. Grinning to myself, I ducked into a bathroom to shrink some of my bags and lighten my load, setting out with a new determination. If I wanted to blend in with your average Malibu 21-year-old, I'd have to spend some money.

Starting at a store selling smart-casual men's clothing, I tried on whatever took my fancy, which ended up being rather a lot. However, the increasing pile of shopping bags didn't faze me; I'd been shopping with Ginny before. Still, by the time I was finished, it was nearing five, and I called it a day and got back to the hotel room. I'd been awake for almost twelve hours and was lagging.