We bring Peri back into the house. Q sits down to watch some TV, while I serve Peri some of the fruit that’s been freshly grilled by Q Sr. She seems to like playing with it more than eating it.
I sit down with Q in front of the TV, allowing Q Sr. and Peri some time to eat together. Alice is outside keeping herself occupied.
Q and I snuggle and watch a movie. Q Sr. graciously cleans Peri up and clears her plate.
Afterward, Q Sr. takes Peri out to the sunroom and reads her a bedtime story.
Quincy Sr.: *apologetic tone* Pop-pop hasn’t read a story to a child in years, so bear with me.
Q Sr. opens the book and begins to read, trying his best to make the story as interesting as he can. Peri seems to enjoy it either way.
Alice finishes up her painting and sits quietly next to Q Sr. and Peri while Q Sr. continues to read. After he finishes the book Peri looks up at him as if she’s expecting him to read the book again.
Quincy Sr.: I think it’s time to return you to your parents for bedtime. Okay?
Q and I take Peri to her bedroom to begin her bedtime routine, which involves changing her into her pajamas, brushing her teeth and tucking her into bed.
Q approaches me after Peri is asleep.
Quincy Jr.: I hope my mom hasn’t completely ruined this trip for you.
I think about it and despite what his mom did with Peri…I’ve still enjoyed seeing the beach and building a sand sculpture.
Alida: No…it’s okay. We’ll do fun stuff with Peri tomorrow.
Quincy Jr.: Well, I can think of some fun stuff that you and I can do now.
Alida: Like what?
Quincy Jr.: Follow me…
Q leads me to the bedroom and begins to undress down to his underwear. I follow his lead, with just one hesitation…
Alida: But your parents!
Quincy Jr.: Don’t worry…their bedroom is on the other side of the house. They won’t hear a thing…
Alida: And is this a theory…or are you talking from experience?
Quincy Jr.: If you’re asking if I’ve ever had another girl in this bed…the answer is no. I could only dream of being alone with a woman like you in my bedroom.
That is definitely the right answer.
We crawl up under the covers and end the first day of our trip the best way possible.
(Generation 1a Chapter Summaries)
