The ride to Naples was long because of a traffic jam, making Alex edgy in his seat. After changing his music choice several times, he gave up and turned it off.
There was an idea forming, one he was mentally fighting against. It was irrational but once formed, it wouldn’t relent. Hesitantly, he called Enzo’s number.
“Hey, you okay? Got to the airport yet?” Enzo asked.
“No, tons of traffic. Look, I know this is crazy, but can you give me the number to that client from the gym that owns a nursery?”
“You need someone to take care of the yard? I can do that for you.”
“No, no, I need a garden built. Some flowers and herbs. Maybe some trees.”
“Ah, okay? I’ll forward Sean’s info to you now. Sure you’re okay?”
Alex frowned, wondering if this was the worst idea he’d ever had.
“Yeah, I’m good. Just planting some seeds, I guess.”
Alex arrived in Argentina sixteen hours later, fatigued both physically and emotionally. After grabbing his duffel bag and putting the bag with his camera gear on his shoulder, he went out into the concourse to find his Spanish contact.
Spotting an older man holding a sign with his name on it, Alex walked over and introduced himself.
“Mr. Alessandro, I’m Manuel Osaro. Thank you for coming and being a part of this new project. Everyone was so excited that your plans changed so you could join us,” the man said.
“It’s an honor to be here and part of this work. Please, call me Alex,” he replied, following his guide out of the airport.
A few hours later, Alex was settling into the makeshift camp on the outskirts of Chaco. Day had given way to night as he joined the rest of the group.
The journey had been long, and his emotions still high, but he was anxious to meet the team before heading to bed. He was the last to arrive and after a hearty meal and some conversation, the camaraderie was easy and pleasant.
“Alex, we’re excited to have you onboard. I’m so glad your plans changed so you could join us,” Russell Martin said.
“It’s a privilege to work with UNICEF, Russell. Glad it all worked out,” Alex answered.
“Our interpreters have explained what we want to do with the wells to the people in the nearby towns. I wish you could have seen their faces. Your photos will bring much-needed attention to this part of the world that gets neglected where aid is concerned.”
“I’ll do my best. I can’t wait to meet some of them. That’s my favorite part,” Alex replied with a nod, stifling a yawn. “Well, it’s been a long travel day. See you all in the morning.”
“Night, Alex. Oh, and my boss said it was a personal issue that had you turn the project down recently. Hope everything worked out for you.”
Alex nodded and answered flatly, “Worked out the way it should have. Good night.”
Walking outside the compound that was set up for the group who would start digging the wells, Alex made his way to his tent. The canvas shelter would be his temporary home for the next several weeks. Before going in, he lifted his head to look up at the stars, wondering where in the world she was.
Taking her colorful scarf out of his pocket, he brought it up to his face and closed his eyes as he inhaled.
He prayed that her fragrance would last for the whole trip because it was the only thing grounding him.
Bending over as he entered his tent, he used his phone’s flashlight to turn on the solar lantern by his cot. He would have to wait until they were closer to the bigger cities to get a signal again, so for the next few days, he would be unreachable.
Stretching out on his cot, his eyes closed as replayed their last words.
“Aria, what are you saying? You’re my life, you’re my adventure. I love you. I know what I want because I’m holding it in my hands. Tell me you love me, too. Say the words to me, Aria.”
“I, I can’t.”
Those words hurt more than he imagined as he played them over again in his mind, his heart begging him to stop.
I can’t.
