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It's been days since we last spoke, and I'm itching to break the ice. But every time I open my mouth, the words get stuck in my throat.
Finally, when we're cruising at thirty-thousand feet and the seatbelt sign dings off, I decide watching a movie is better than forcing conversation.
As I scroll through the options, Lacey leans over, her breath warm on my ear. "Anything good to watch?"
I stiffen, not expecting the sudden proximity. "Uh, yeah." I keep scrolling. "There's a rom-com that looks cheesy enough to be entertaining."
I blink at the screen, my thumb hovering over the icon for Beauty and the Beast. Turning to Lacey with a grin, I quip, "How about this one? We could do a live action vs. cartoon debate. I'll take meticulous notes."
"Don't you dare," she laughs, her eyes sparkling. "We're saving that debate for movie night. Remember?"
Her warmth surprises me, melting the ice of the past few days. "Movie night?" I retort, a bit sharper than intended. "Thought those required talking. We've been pretty silent lately."
Her smile fades, and she looks away before meeting my gaze again. "I know. I'm sorry. Just been a lot on my mind."
"Join the club," I say, not wanting to dwell on apologies.
Instead, I hit play on a random movie. Lacey settles in, putting on her headphones, and we let the moment of connection fade as the movie begins.
By the time we land and gather our carry-ons, I can already feel the distance between us growing again. She turns her attention back to Grace and the red sketchbook that's seemingly attached to her hand.
Rolling through a cloud-covered Manhattan in our private car, we arrive at the luxurious Montfaire Hotel. Jesse, with an excited Grace by her side, checks us into the largest adjoining suites.
While they’re busy, I turn to Lacey. “So, tonight’s the big night,” I begin, trying to catch Lacey's attention as we loiter awkwardly near the elevator. “The ‘Save the Turtles with Ties’ gala. It’s early afternoon; we’ve got plenty of time to get ready for the endangered reptiles' fashion show.” I flash a casual smile, hoping to lighten the mood.
Lacey, flicking her silky, streaked curls over one shoulder, grins back. “Gotta love a man in a suit.”
“I sure do. And Grace gets to attend the first part. I heard there’s a ‘Tie Bid’ for the little guys. Grace could totally win a tie for a lucky turtle.”
My attempt at pep seems to hit the mark; Lacey’s smile widens. Just as she’s about to respond, I add, “And tonight, Jessie, not you, will put Grace to bed.”
Lacey’s smile drops, her lips pulling into a frown. “Why?”
“Because, my dear Watson,” I say, folding my arms, “I found Grace’s summer calendar. Carrigan and Jessie run it like it’s the Super Bowl playbook.” I sigh, adding, “But you were right. There’s no time for fun. It’s all swimming, tutors, piano lessons... There's even a seminar for first graders on effective leadership.”
Lacey laughs, shaking her head in disbelief.
“So, we’re in NYC for the weekend. Let’s shake things up. Add some spontaneous fun to Grace’s schedule. But I need your help—partners in crime, so to speak. Are you in?”
Adventure lights up Lacey’s eyes. “Only if I get to bid on a turtle tie too.”
“Deal.” I extend my hand, and after a moment’s hesitation, Lacey shakes it, smiling. “Partners in crime.”
“Partners in crime,” she repeats, our handshake sealing the deal.
Jessie and Grace finish at the check-in desk and turn to join us.
“Speaking of being partners,” I say, glancing at my watch with mock seriousness, “we’ve got about thirty minutes before our appointments.”
Lacey looks puzzled. “What appointments?”
“Our tailor appointments,” I say, struggling to keep a straight face. “Tonight’s gala demands we look our best, and apparently, that requires professional help. You’re off to a chic boutique, and I’m meeting a guy about a suit. We’d better hurry.”
Lacey’s eyes widen, then narrow playfully. “You’re not serious?”
“As serious as a penguin at a black-tie event. We can’t have you showing up in just turtle ties, can we? Unless you think they’d be a hit at the gala?”
Laughing, Lacey shakes her head, tugging at the sleeves of her oversized sweater. “Alright, I guess... Lead the way.” She guides Grace towards the elevator, turning back to add, “But if your tailor tries to put me in a tux, we’re swapping appointments.”
