It’s the first day of spring here in Tartosa, and it’s finally warm enough to swim. But unlike yesterday, during Sophia and Luca’s wedding – the entire day is scheduled to be overcast. I won’t complain, though, because it’s much better than the cold we can expect when we return to Brindleton Bay. I get up right before sunrise to do laps in the pool.
Maia wakes up, steps out on the balcony, and watches for a while as Dub finishes his last lap and rolls onto his back to float. Despite feeling a little off this morning, she’s ready to begin the day, so she changes into her swimsuit and heads down the stairs.
Maia walks out into the backyard with a plate of grilled fruit. As soon as I see the plate, my stomach growls. I climb out of the pool and join her at the table.
Wade: It’s our last day here. Is there anything you’d like to do today?
Maia: Relaxing in the pool sounds nice, or maybe we can finally enjoy the beach today.
Wade: I’m okay with any of that.
Maia finishes up her fruit but suddenly begins to gag.
Wade: Are you okay?
Maia: Ugh, this fruit isn’t agreeing with me this morning.
Wade: It is a little sweet. Maybe that’s what it is.
Maia: Maybe, but it could be something I ate at the wedding. I’ll be okay in a minute.
Maia gets up from the table, climbs into the pool, and swims to the floating lounge chair, but something still isn’t right. I sit at the edge of the pool.
Wade: Are you sure you’re okay?
Maia: I’ll be fine.
Judging by the look on her face, I’m not convinced. And if she’s still feeling queasy, I don’t think floating on water will help much.
Wade: Maybe we should take a walk down to the beach. The ocean breeze might do you good.
Just as we’re changing and getting ready to leave, I receive an email from a local retailer asking me for some travel footage for their new advertising campaign. It sounds like a good opportunity. Luckily, I brought the drone with me. I take it out and set it to roam the area before Maia joins me, dressed and ready to go.
Maia: See? I’m feeling better already.
Wade: Good! And you look beautiful. The only thing that’ll make this morning better is a little sun.
Maia: True
We leave the backyard and walk to the front of the house towards the stairs leading to the beach.
Wade: So, what did you think about the wedding?
Maia: It was beautiful. I’m glad Luca invited us. It’s almost hard to believe that the two of you just met. It’s like you’ve known each other forever.
Wade: Right? Besides my brothers, I never had any male friends. But he’s a real one.
Maia: And Sophia married into a great family.
Wade: You would too – if we got married. They already see you as a part of the family.
Maia: Really?
Wade: Yeah. *pause* Speaking of weddings – would you want a big wedding or something small and intimate?
Maia: You know, I never thought about it.
Wade: Really? You never dreamed about what your wedding would be like as a little girl?
Maia: No. Did you?
Wade: As a little girl?
Maia: *laughs* You know what I mean!
Wade: I never thought about weddings until I met you.
Maia’s response is a smile. I’m glad she finally seems more open to discussing these things, but I’m careful not to push it too much.
We arrive at a small beach, which doesn’t seem as popular as the one from the other day. We practically have it to ourselves, which is nice. We stop for a few selfies.
We slip out of our clothes and step into the surprisingly temperate water. I would have hated leaving Tartosa without stepping foot in the ocean. We share a kiss or two – or three and enjoy this quiet, peaceful moment together.
The peace doesn’t last for long. Maia walks up to me after we return to the rental.
Maia: Dub, do you mind if we go home a little early?
Wade: Anything you want – but why?
Maia: I still don’t feel right, but I think I’d be more comfortable at home.
Wade: Do you think it’s something serious? Should we go to the hospital?
Maia: No. I don’t think it’s serious – probably just a bug. I’ll feel better once we’re home. I’m sure of it.
Wade: Yeah, okay. Let’s pack up our things.
I’m sad to cut our trip short, but I’m also very concerned about Maia. We reenter the bedroom to pack our bags, which Maia retching almost the entire time. I suggest we go to the doctor again, but Maia insists on going home. Once we’ve packed, we call up a S-Uber and head home.
(Generation 4 Chapter Summaries)
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