My alarm goes off at six, and I’m physically and mentally exhausted. Any other Monday, I’d show up at eight, but since Travis is out of the office this week, it’s my responsibility to make sure the group doesn’t completely go crazy. But honestly, we all act the same if he’s there or not, because he’s one of the best bosses around.
After I get dressed, I make a pot of coffee and fill a travel mug full before heading out the door. I walk into King Marketing, and everyone is shocked I’m there before eight on a Monday. It’s not something I usually do. Though I’m punctual, Travis gives us flex time so I can show up whenever really, as long as it’s before 8:30.
“I’m learning to be a morning person,” I say to Jayden, a new intern Travis hired last week. No one believes me. Heck, I don’t even believe myself. But if I have to get up early, I can do it no problem.
I walk into my office and sit at my desk. I open my phone and type a big long, detailed text message to him, read it, and immediately delete it. Texting is not the place to talk about something so personal, and he’s sleeping after working twelve hours. I answer a few emails and fix a networking problem and before I know it, half the day is gone. Before I lock my computer, I see an email from Viola.
To: Courtney Bishop
From: Viola King
Subject: No fucking way!
We landed safely. I’m so excited to be in London that I can’t help it, but I’m tired and jet lagged. On the way over, I asked Travis why we couldn’t have invited you. He reminded me it was our honeymoon. But I miss you. Oh also, WTF! YOU AND DREW? Travis and I literally high-fived when I connected to Wi-Fi and received your text. It’s about time. Oh yeah, are you pregnant with my nieces and nephews yet? Too soon? :)
P.S. Please spare me the details. I just had a croissant and I’d like to keep it down.
Love you,
Lola
My heart begins to race. I totally forgot I had sent her that panicked text message when I was in the bathroom. And I just remember she hadn’t responded yet. I hurry up and type back just in case she’s still around Wi-Fi.
To: Viola Fisher
From: Courtney Bishop
Subject: Yes fucking way!
Lola….
Oh, you’re going to get details whenever you come home. Maybe you can tell Drew because he doesn’t remember a thing. He told me that and I died inside. I don’t know what to do. I want to talk to him about it, but I don’t know where to start. I’m freaking out over here. HELP ME. FREAKING OUT. WORST THAN WHEN TOBY BROKE UP WITH ME FREAK OUT.
P.s. The only person who gets pregnant the first time they do it is you.
P.S.S. It’s called birth control.
P.S.S.S. I hope you were surprised about London!
Love you & miss you,
Court
I hit send and stand and start pacing. It’s crazy how much Viola gets me and when I need her the most she’s off celebrating the most important day of her life. My email refreshes and I sit and smile.
To: Courtney Bishop
From: Travis King
Subject: GET TO WORK
NOW!
P.S. Congratulations.
Travis King
Owner, King Marketing
Travis makes me laugh out loud, the jerk. I give him a quick reply that says NOPE right as an email from Viola floods in.
To: Courtney Bishop
From: Viola King
Subject: WTF?
What do you mean he doesn’t remember? People don’t just forget about things like that, do they? Oh, Travis just informed me that if a person drinks enough it’s possible, then I gave him evil eyes because he probably knows from experience. Okay I’m sure that doesn’t make you feel any better. Please don’t freak out. It’ll make me worry about you. Why not text Kayla and ask her to hang out with you? She’d probably be all about it. Ice cream hath no fury when you’re losing it and she’s a sweets junkie like you. Also, I was on birth control, remember? But I won’t jinx you. Too much.
London is amazing but all I want to do right now is sleep. We’re waiting for a cab to drive us to the hotel. I love you. Email me at any time. Just remember: everything is going to be okay, always.
Sending virtual hugs,
Lola
I let out a breath, but I don’t feel any more relaxed. I’m wound up tighter than a wind-up toy. I decide to leave work and grab lunch. It’s a beautiful day so I put the top down and blast Adele’s latest CD, and sing the sappy words at the top of my lungs like I’m dedicating them to Drew as the wind blows through my hair. Obviously, I need to get a grip. I go to a drive-thru deli and grab a quick salad and coconut water. While I’m waiting in line for my order, I pull out my phone and text Kayla.