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Stefan said, “We set these to a max speed of 4.5 MPH for the tour. If you decide to buy one yourself someday, they can go up to 11.5 MPH — but for touring purposes, we have the limit set on them. So don’t be worried that it might go too fast on you.”
“That thought never crossed my mind,” Ryker said, getting a chuckle from the group.
They practiced for about half an hour in the parking lot. Once everyone was familiar with the controls, the tour started.
For the next hour and a half, Stefan rattled off facts about Nashville’s history, culture, and food favorites as their group rolled past then on the tour. They rode two by two with Stefan leading the way. Their group had a blast seeing the city’s major highlights, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, Tennessee State Capitol, and the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The seniors’ humor and comments along the way made the tour even better.
Surprisingly, no one recognized Jade during the tour, despite the fact that they went past that night’s venue — where Lovely Oblivion banners, including her picture, announced the show. Their group got some looks for riding Segways, but no one seemed to notice Jade’s real identity.
When they rolled back into the tour center’s parking lot, everyone was laughing and complimenting Stefan on his guide skills.
They parked their Segways. Ryker helped Jade take her helmet off first and smoothed her wig.
“Perfect,” he said.
He took his own helmet off and held them by the straps.
Stefan came around and collected them from everyone.
“Thanks for touring with us today,” he announced. “I hope to see all of you again on our intermediate tour now that you’re pro Segwayists! We have a longer tour with more attractions and a bit off off-roading that I think you would all love. Let me know if anyone wants more information or visit our website. Have a fantastic afternoon, everyone!”
Jade and Ryker started to leave when one of the seniors called out to them. “Son, do you have a minute?”
They turned to look at the older gentleman. “Sure, what can I do for you, sir?”
The white-haired man smiled at them. “Are you military, son? From the way you carry yourself, I get that sense.”
Ryker nodded. “I’m a former SEAL. I served eight years.”
The man extended his palm. “Thank you for your service.”
Ryker shook his hand and simply nodded in response.
“I bet these Segways were tame compared to what you’re used to.”
Ryker laughed. “I mean, they’re not as fun as jumping out of a plane, but they were still fun. Especially with such great company. Thanks for keeping it lively.”
“Whatever makes life more interesting. I try to live by the ‘stop existing, start living’ motto.”
“Great motto.”
The man nodded. “Thanks, again, son. I’m glad to meet you.” He glanced at Jade. “You too, young lady. You make a beautiful couple and I wish you many great years together.”
“Thank you, sir. Same for you and your wife,” Jade said with a smile.
The man beamed and went back over to join his wife, who stood talking to Stefan.
Ryker put his hand on the small of Jade’s back and guided her to the sidewalk.
“I saw a mom ‘n pop diner around the corner. I bet it serves great food,” Ryker said. “Are you hungry? We still have two hours before you have to be back.”
“Food sounds great.”
“Okay.”
He took her hand, laced his finger through hers, and led the way around the block. They walked into a cute 50’s style diner that definitely had the “mom ‘n pop” feel he mentioned.
A young server wearing a poodle skirt uniform greeted them inside the door. She handed them menus. “Good afternoon, y’all! Take a seat wherever you want and we’ll be right with you. What would you like to drink?”
