“For about four months,” she nodded. “Anyway, full disclosure, he’s in jail on racketeering charges, but I think he’s very insightful. He says after emotional exertion you should do physical exertion; it helps your body process grief and anger.” She hopped up on the lowest branch and went up the tree like a lemur.
“Well, with that kind of reliable research behind your words, how can I say no?” Tox moved in behind her, and while he climbed more like a grizzly, he moved with equal speed and agility. About halfway up they stopped and perched on a branch.
“I actually do feel better.”
“Good. I feel sticky.” She held up her hands. “Sap.”
Just then a man walked by twenty feet below them. He was speaking on the phone in low tones. The man ended the call and spun in a slow circle, then continued walking.
“I’m covered in sap and pine needles. I’m a walking caramel apple.” Calliope laughed.
They sat for a spell in the tree listening to the receding thunder, just their pinky fingers touching as they braced on the branch.
“I really want you to kiss me right now.”
“Sap and all?”
“Sap and all.”
“Good to know.” He winked.
Tox maneuvered down to the next branch of the Eastern White Pine and declared, “You know, I think your incarcerated guru is onto something. Next time, I’ll get you on the mat. Teach you a little Krav Maga.”
“I’d love that. I’m not big on violence, but some of those moves are like yoga. Pure poetry.”
Calliope swallowed the rejection, gifted him with a bright smile, and followed his lead.
When they were back on solid ground, Tox pointed to the sky. The clouds had dissipated, and patches of blue peeked through. “You never got your rain shower.”
“It’ll come,” she nodded.
“It is April.”
“Hey, are you hungry?”
“Cal? I know you don’t know me that well, but the answer to that question is always yes.” He gave her a crooked smile and that devastating dimple appeared.
Calliope laughed. “Your reputation precedes you. Twitch says your nickname should have been Blue Whale because you cruise around all day and eat a million calories. Anyway, my favorite diner is around the corner.”
“Sounds great.”
“It gets better. They have these incredible pancakes they serve all day. They’re like the size of the plate, and they issue this challenge: if you can eat three, your meal is free.”
“I’m your guy.”
Calliope led him out of the park, surprised by how much she liked Tox’s last statement.