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My flight is delayed. What’s up with the weather in NY?

I looked out the window at the storm that was getting worse by the minute. Wind slashed at the windows, and the rain appeared to be going sideways.

6:36 PM: Me

Tail end of a hurricane that moved north.

6:40 PM: Allyson

I’ll be lucky to get in by late Friday at this point.

6:41 PM: Me

Stuck in Paris. Gee, I feel so bad for you…

6:43 PM: Allyson

Ha-ha. Not funny. I’m miserable. It’s nearly 2 AM, and I’m holed up in an airport indefinitely.

I paused my texting to glance at the clock. I had forgotten about the time difference.

6:45 PM: Me

Sorry, that sucks.

6:50 PM: Allyson

Can you reschedule our spa day? Maybe for Saturday if you’re free?

Alexander planned on taking his boat out on Saturday, but by the looks of the weather forecast, that wasn’t going to happen.

This is my chance to create a little space.

It took me about half a second to make the decision.

6:53 PM: Me

Saturday it is. I’ll change the reservation.

6:55 PM: Allyson

Great! Hopefully, I’ll be home by then. I’ll text if there’s another delay.

I looked up the number for the Mandarin. It was no trouble switching our reservation to Saturday. However, I knew rescheduling with Alexander would not go off quite as easy, and I dreaded the conversation.

I went back to preparing dinner and layered arugula with sliced chicken, walnuts, and feta cheese. I was about to pour a balsamic over the top when a knock at the door interrupted me.

My stomach grumbled in annoyance over the second disruption as I went to answer it. I peered through the peep hole to see who it was, but there wasn’t anyone on the other side of the door.

That’s weird.

I opened the door anyway and found a flower delivery on the floor in front of the threshold. Unsure as to whether the flowers were for Allyson or me, I picked up the beautiful arrangement of blue delphiniums and baby’s breath and brought them to the kitchen. Placing the bouquet on the counter, I removed the envelope from the vase. The card was addressed to me.

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” - Maya Angelou

Looking forward to the weekend.

Alex