AllFreeNovel
Share Us
After finishing up the kitchen and the last load of laundry for the evening, I lock everything up and head to bed. Even though I’m exhausted, I’m just not sure I can sleep. Not with the knowledge of leaving Bri for three nights looming in the morning. It’s going to be awkward, me being solo for multiple nights for the first time in over five years. I suppose this would be the perfect time to potentially meet someone. I mean, I’m going to be in a strange city at a hotel, right? It doesn’t get more convenient than that.
Even though that’s never been my forte, it wouldn’t hurt me to keep my options open. Three whole nights without my daughter could prove to be beneficial in that respect. I mean, I am still a man. Even if this man has been more celibate than not in the last few years.
Except for my time with Payton. That’s something I’m not likely to forget anytime soon.
* * *
The drive to Richmond is peaceful, something I’m not accustomed to. I bask in the solitude of listening to my own music, not whatever Bri wants to listen to or whatever movie she’s watching. It’s actually enjoyable to have a little me time, though I’d never admit that to my mom. I’ll never hear the end of it if I do.
The convention is in one of Richmond’s largest hotels, The Freemont. They’ve hosted the annual event for several years as accountants and CPAs from all over the country attend this informative and educational 3-day event. Even though it falls during the beginning of tax season (who’s bright idea was that anyway?), they still sell out tickets every year.
When I pull into the parking garage, it isn’t until the third level that I finally find a parking spot, and even then, it’s way in back. The temperature is brisk with a chill in the air. It’s not quite as salty as the Bay weather, but feels much of the same anyway.
After parking my car, I retrieve my briefcase, roller suitcase, and my garment bag. I’m not required to wear business suits to the event, but I brought one just in case. There’s a dinner on Thursday night at the hotel where it’s a little more of a dressed-up event. Otherwise, Dockers or dress slacks, dress shirt, and tie are the attire for men, and business dress for the women. Though, I’m sure I’ll still see plenty of suits over the next three days. Some old school guys still wear them daily.
The check-in process is pretty painless. My reservation for a king-sized bed, non-smoking room is pretty standard. I have the company card that my reservation was made under, so after signing my name a few times, I’m handed the plastic key card and told which elevator will take me to my floor. Technically, they all will, but the one at the far end of the corridor will get me closest to my home away from home for the next three nights.
I make quick work of unpacking my suit, my suitcase and shaving kit, and computer. Even though I’m required to attend this thing doesn’t mean work stops. Not at the end of January. I grab my phone to text Mom when my stomach growls, reminding me that I didn’t eat dinner tonight before I left the house. It sounds childish, but I couldn’t eat. My stomach was in knots as I watched my daughter smile and carry on without a care in the world. And for her, there isn’t a care. She’ll be perfectly fine and content with her grandma, and me, I’ll be missing her every second of every day.
That’s the first thing I learned about being a parent: unconditional, never-ending love.
I fire off a quick text to Mom. Even though it’s after nine, I know she’ll be waiting to hear from me. Her reply comes before I can even set the phone down.
Mom: She was out before I finished the second story. We’re fine. Have fun.
Me: I’m glad. Don’t let her sweet talk you in to ice cream for breakfast.
Mom: Don’t you worry about it. What happens when Dad is away stays between Bri and me.
Me: That makes me question why I left her in your hands.
Mom: You turned out just fine.
Me: I also never had ice cream for breakfast.
Mom: One of the joys of having grandkids. Go. Enjoy yourself. We’re fine.
I put my phone in the back pocket of my jeans and grab my key card. I’m starved, and could honestly use a drink. Pushing aside all thoughts of what’s waiting for me at home, I head out of my room and down to the restaurant. Maybe with a full belly and a glass of something strong, I’ll be able to get a little sleep tonight.
