14

We went back to Sammy’s Skydiving. We took off all the equipment and the jumpsuits and left in Alaric’s sports car. We drove in silence with the windows down, both of us seeming to reflect on the amazing experience we had just participated in.

Alaric drove us to his condo and parked. He opened my door for me as he led me into his home. I excused myself to the restroom as he began rummaging around the kitchen talking about burgers and grilling.

I returned to find the condo empty and noticed the sliding glass doors off the kitchen slightly a jar. I headed toward them and found Alaric standing outside in front of the grill. I cautiously stepped out onto the stone patio.

A large, built-in grill was surrounded by tan and light brown bricks with a beautiful countertop. It made a large L shape and had a dark, wooden canopy over it. Across from it was an oversized umbrella with four patio chairs made of a dark wicker with light brown cushions beneath. Matching ottomans sat in front of each