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The passenger door opens and she slides in, smiling. The woman gives good face.
“Morning!”
Leilani treats each day like something wonderful is going to happen. It’s catchy. My mood lifts, no matter what the latest bullshit is on the horizon.
I lean over for a start the day kiss. Any excuse works. The good morning, a lazy afternoon, the setting sun.
“Hi, babe.”
We pull away.
“Ready to pick out some artwork? We have an eleven o’clock appointment.”
“I’m interested in seeing this fabric. Lani says they are the only ones on the island who still do it this ancient way. Maybe I can use it for some special custom suits. Or buy some remnants for myself.”
“Good thinking.”
“I’ll have to see what they charge.”
“Right. I’m hoping to be able to get a few for large hangings in the restaurant, or just one for the entry. Either way, it will be dramatic. And another authentic piece to the whole.”
“What about the muralist?”
“He’s just down the road from them. It’s a sort of colony of artists.”
“What kind of mural are you looking for?”
“I want him to guide me. I’ll offer my opinions but think it would be to our advantage to listen to the expert. Chime in if you think of something.”
“Fun!”
All the way to the colony, Leilani and I sing to nineties music. It’s kind of our thing now. Never was my thing before, and I have no explanation why it is now. Other than the fact she has made it fun. Suddenly I’m fucking Justin Timberlake, singing at the top of my lungs. When we are together, everything including the mundane has a new vibe. I don’t know if it is me or her. Must be us.
“There it is!”
She points to the small carved sign announcing Colony Pono. It’s weathered wood and slightly leaning to the right. If you blink you would miss it entirely.
I turn onto the dirt road leading back between the trees. The light fades with the dense covering of thick branches.
“This would be spooky at night.”
“I’d save you from the monster. Or the chainsaw killer. Just stick with me, kid.”
She takes my hand.
“Wouldn’t that be nice? But maybe you’ve heard, you will be leaving soon. Your life is waiting for you.”
There is no chuckle or lightness in her voice. I look at her but she keeps her eyes straight ahead.
“We need to talk about that.”
“That’s fine. But there really isn’t anything we can do about it, but accept the inevitable.”
I turn toward the sign pointing to Kapa Fabrics.
“We’re two smart people, we can figure something out. Let’s not give in so easily.”
Now I get a smile.
