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The traffic ahead was because of a wayside café. It attracted several truckers that filled the parking area. Alina had to squeeze her car to the edge of the road.
The café was, as expected, busy with chatter and the stench of hard-working men. Alina followed Taylor to the last available seating closest to the bathroom. Scraps of food and empty dishes still covered the table, and Taylor scrunched up her face at the sight of it. Alina knew if she didn’t get rid of it soon, she would have to hear about it long after the trip, much like the wine tasting event Alina took Taylor to for her birthday, so she raised her hand and got the waitress’s attention. The table was cleaned quickly after that and the women wasted no time ordering a healthy serving of waffles and egg with a milkshake.
As soon as the waitress left, Alina asked, “Who are you and what have you done to my best friend?”
“She’s on vacation and hence will eat vacation food,” Taylor responded, her eyes daring Alina to say more. “So have you thought about what you will say to him?”
“I’m not sure,” Alina said. “But it has to be the truth, no matter how fearful it may seem. I need to regain his trust.”
“You will,” Taylor assured her. “And if you need any help, I would be at your side in a flash.”
“I know you will, Taylor,” Alina smiled across the table. “You’re a really good friend.
“Excuse me, ladies. Is it okay if we were to join you?” The women looked around to find two very attractive men standing over them. A smile spread across Taylor’s lips instantly, but Alina was not in the mood to entertain.
“There are plenty of other tables in this café,” Alina threw back.
“Yes, but none of them are empty,” the blonde with curly hair answered. “In fact, you’re the only ones with the least amount of people at the table.”
Alina observed the room and was disappointed to find out the man was right.
“Don’t mind her,” Taylor interjected. “Have a seat.”
The men took their seats, and Taylor immediately engaged them in conversation. It reminded Alina of the first time she met Dereck. The restaurant had mixed up their reservations and the two best friends were forced to join the group of handsome men. That was the first time Alina noticed how infuriating Dereck was and also how handsome he is. If he didn’t have to leave early that night, she probably would have either knocked him out senselessly or jumped into his bed.
“So, where are you two ladies headed?” The dark-haired Adonis spoke. He wore a t-shirt that seemed two sizes too small.
“New Haven,” Taylor answered, with a smile on her face that infuriated Alina. “We’re going to find Alina’s boyfriend and reunite their love.”
Why was she giving these strangers information?
“Oh well, we’re headed that way too,” the blonde, whose name was Logan, said. “Actually, we’re headed up to New Hampshire, but we’re making a stop in New Haven to meet an old friend.”
“What a coincidence?” Taylor said. “Maybe we’re meant to meet.”
“Hey. I got a great idea.” Taylor was at the edge of her seat as Adam spoke. “How about we meet up in New Haven? Our friend’s family owns a restaurant chain. If you give me your number, I will send you the address. We can meet up for dinner.”
Taylor’s eyes flashed across to Alina, who shook her head with a grimace. She ignored her friend and took out her phone, storing Adam’s number.
The rest of the lunch felt like a blur to Alina. She sat mostly in silence, contemplating her meetup with Dereck while Taylor entertained her two guests. They left the café two hours after and headed to their hotel.
Their hotel was modern yet cozy with luxuries fit for two women away from home. This included a spa, bistro, and, of course, a bar. The hotel was painted in warm colors but still maintained an elegant atmosphere.
Alina was still unpacking when Taylor knocked on her door and invited herself into the room, which was equipped with a queen-sized bed, dresser drawers, a nightstand, and a small dining table. There was a door that led to a patio overlooking the deep blue ocean waters.
Taylor inhaled deeply before heaving herself on the bed. “This place smells like spring.”
Alina looked at her friend and shook her head. “Have you even unpacked?”
Propping her upper body on her elbow, Taylor said. “No time. We have to leave now if we intend to meet the men in time.”
Alina clung to the shirt she held in her hand. “You can’t be serious, Taylor. I didn’t come here for this.”
Taylor tugged at the sheet to pull herself closer to her friend. “I know you didn’t, but who says we can’t have a little fun along the way?”
“Taylor, we need to find Dereck.” Alina rubbed the back of her neck.
“And I promise to do whatever it takes to help you, but first let’s have a little fun.” Taylor pouted her lips and widened her eyes, an expression that always softened her best friend.
