Washington

Plans

Monique entered the living room, carrying two cardboard boxes. “Dinner arrived.”

           Mia set the table and filled the glasses with wine. “Leave that be for now.” She motioned her mother and Derek to leave the maps and laptop on the kitchen counter and sit at the dinner table.

            “I heard back from Patrick, and we got the okay to visit the caves.” Derek explained as he sat down. “These aren’t public caves or a national park. They’re privately owned. They’re called ‘Badlands’ but there are a few areas that go by the same name, no affiliation.”

Monique took the three pizza boxes and laid them out in the center of the large table. “It still feels weird, going to private caves. I didn’t even know a person could own caves. Are you sure about that?”

Derek nodded. “It’s a company, not one individual that owns them. And we have their consent. Patrick and his buddies use these caves for fun, and scientists do research there. Of course, we’ll all have to sign waivers, but we’d have to do this regardless which caves we visit. On another note. Are you and Monique sure that you want to drive? You could fly with us and then rent a car. You wouldn't be bound by it, and you wouldn't wear out your own car. Not to mention that it’s kind of dangerous for two women to travel alone. No offense.”   

         Monique laughed, her chubby cheeks revealing dimples. “I'm in-between jobs right now, it's a fine time to finish up old business and take some vacation. Besides, Connie is pacing holes in my hard wood floors and I'm taking her onto that damn trip. It'll give us a chance to see America, and we both can use a change of scenery. Rental cars can be expensive, especially for cross-country trips. And don’t worry about our safety. I got Connie with me.” She laughed.

            Connie playfully stuck her tongue out at her. Derek and Mia giggled.

            “Besides,” Monique continued, “it’s time I take that girl out of her comfort zone. Get fresh air into that stuffy brain of hers, let her muse inspire her. Maybe find a couple of guys to have casual sex with.” She reached across the table and helped herself to a slice of pizza. It’s why she didn’t see Connie’s face paling at the mention of muses and men. Mother would have loved that plan.

Derek grinned, ready to say something, when Mia pinched him. And Connie shook her head, determined to not give the idea of muses, or men, an ounce of energy. She preferred to focus on the practical. “My little beetle is a diesel engine, it’s sturdy and meant for long distance driving. I’m not worried about wearing it out. Mia is going back for her final semester in Germany after our trip to South Dakota. Monique and I will continue to Minnesota to visit a friend and to support Pete at his fencing tournament. Then, I’ll drive to New York to see Seth, my son, and his bride-to-be. I haven’t met Myling, and I want to get to know her before the wedding.” Connie licked her fingers. There, conversation successfully controlled. No more talk about muses and men.

          Mia leaned back into the chair. “You’ll like her, she’s so petite, pretty and outwardly quiet, but once you get to know her …”. She motioned her hands into take-off position.

          “Well, I am not happy that I won’t see my girlfriend for three whole months. We started dating two months ago and you're leaving already. Do you have another guy over there?” Derek teased her.

           Mia rubbed his arm and leaned in to kiss his cheek. “I’ll break up with him right after I get back there, I promise.” She batted her eyelashes at him.  

Derek’s eyes narrowed, unsure if she was joking. The young woman laughed, leaned in further and whispered something into his ear. Relief washed over his face like a waterfall over stone.  

Monique cleared her throat. “We’re all set. And let’s be honest, I’d rather die out there doing something fun than dying in bed.” 

Derek scowled. “I am a bit intimated here, too many beautiful and smart women. I am not sure it's legal for me to allow you out into the world.” His frown turned into a big grin.

            Monique fanned her face. “Oh; it is getting hot in here.”

            Connie laughed, her cheeks turning rosy.  

“I’m not trying to be a chauvinist, but …” Derek reached his hand across the table and gently touched Connie’s hand, “… it’s dangerous out there.”  

Connie’s facial muscles softened at his gentle concern. “I appreciate that, but on that premise, none of us should ever leave the house. We’ve been talking about taking a vacation for a while. Something always came up. We both agreed to make this an adventure, not plan every little detail. Which is why we’re driving. That way, we can pull over whenever we see something interesting. And let's not forget: all this was your idea.”     

Derek lowered his head, “I didn't think you'd actually do it.”

Monique waved his concerns away. “We’ll be fine. We want to see all the attractions on the way, Mt. Rushmore is one of them. But don't worry. We'll be in South Dakota on time.” She reached for another slice of pizza. “Look, it’s sweet of you to consider our safety. Connie and I will be together the entire time. I have a brown belt in Judo, Connie is an excellent fencer, and we’ll have a weapon ready at all times. We’re as prepared as we’ll ever be.”

Derek tilted his head, cautiously looking at the three women. “So, pissing you off isn’t a good idea?”

Mia laughed, shaking her head. “If you need proof, we can step outside.” She pointed toward the French door. 

Derek shook his head, smiling. “Proof isn’t necessary.” He raised his glass. “Ladies, here’s to muses, love-able men and insurance companies with accident forgiveness.” 

Constantina winced.