It's Me, Again

Ch. 31 (Dylan)

By the time the girls got up and saw that we had left them a full breakfast spread in the kitchen, we were well on our way back home. Mallory called Josh to thank us on behalf of the girls and Kate sent me a thank you text message.

As unsure as I was heading to the beach, I was so happy I went. Kate might still be with Carter, but the day definitely left me with a little bit more clarity. There is something between us and I just have to be patient until it all works itself out and I have faith that it will. Months ago when Kate called me from the hospital, it was the beginning of a second chance. Before that phone call I didn't think any of this was possible, so I will take an uncertain future with her over no future at all. I started this all off saying that even if she only wanted to be friends I would gladly take that over not having her in my life at all. Each passing day it feels like I'm either taking a few steps forward or a giant step back, but I'm just grateful to be on this path at all.

Kate and I decided to meet at the cafe that Sarah works at on Wednesday afternoon. I came with my laptop so we could research, book whatever needed booking, and keep track of information. The idea of going to Africa was so exciting and the thought of spending all of that time with Kate on this once in a lifetime trip was more thrilling than I can put into words.

As I waited for Kate, I got a table big enough for our computers and started looking at YouTube videos of people's safari trips. I was in awe of all the animals they encountered and everyone's testimonials could make even the least outdoorsy person want to book a trip there immediately. I was so enthralled by all the videos that I was watching that I didn't even notice Kate come in until she sat down and I looked up to see her sitting across from me with an amused smile.

"What's got you so captivated on your computer?" She said as she started setting up her laptop.

"Hey, I was watching videos on YouTube of peoples' safari vacations. It's unbelievable how beautiful it all is. Like there are literally no sights that don't look jaw dropping."

Kate giggled, "I know. Lizzie tells me it's unbelievable and we'll feel like we're stepping into a whole other world when we get there."

"Like I've watched these kinds of videos and documentaries on National Geographic and Discovery, but I can't believe we're going to actually get to see it all with our own eyes."

"It's going to be amazing," she nodded. "Okay, so first, we need to fill out these forms for our visa. The visas are pretty strict and only last for the exact amount of days we'll be in the country. Since our access to the park and hotel are pretty flexible, thanks to my sister, I figured we should figure out the days based on what flights we can get."

"Makes sense. The company where I intern is really flexible with my summer hours so as long as I tell them ahead of time I can get off for the trip."

"Will you be able to take 10 days or so off?" She asked me warily, I'm sure because she figured that was a lot of time and it is, but luckily I've earned a lot of good will at the company so as long as I broach the subject correctly, it won't be a problem.

"It shouldn't be a problem. I just need to tell them the dates...and maybe tack on a day or two because I'll probably need to recover from the jet lag when we get home," I chuckle.

"True," Kate laughs. "And hopefully you won't be having any stomach problems. Lizzie said it's really common for visitors to get a bug from the long travel, change in weather, water, etc."

"Ugh don't tell me that," I could feel my stomach turning just at the thought.

"Don't worry, we'll be careful and Lizzie's an expert now so she'll take care of us."