Page 46 of Love's Bloom
“Thanks. I know these plans are a little unorthodox, but Emmett and I are excited about them.”
“That’s all that matters. Should we get our nails done on Saturday morning? My treat?”
“Yes, that would be fun. I thought about having my hair done and decided to leave it as it is. That’s how Emmett likes it.”
“Okay, I’ll make an appointment at the Nail Parlor,” Misty said, relieved to be able to do something for Crystal.
Crystal said goodbye, and Misty ended the call. Life was moving fast. She hoped she was ready for all of it.
###
Misty picked up Hazel, and they headed to their karate lesson. After seeing the traditional uniform on David’s students, Misty and Hazel were both wearing tights and a T-shirt.
David met them in shorts and a T-shirt. “Great to see you.” He led them inside the building to a small classroom and took off his shoes. “This is informal training, so we don’t need uniforms, but we’ll be working on some of the traditional movements before we get into more of a self-defense mode. By doing it this way, I hope you’ll be more aware of your bodies and how to use quick movements to your advantage.”
Misty nodded solemnly. She had told only Crystal about the phone call from Florida and decided not to mention it to anyone else. She slipped off her sandals and stood ready.
David demonstrated a move and then asked Hazel and her to mimic it.
After completing several repetitive moves, Misty felt more in control of her body. She wasn’t ready to confront anyone yet, but she could understand the value of the exercise.
Another instructor arrived, and he and David demonstrated some sparring moves.
“See how you can use your movements to protect yourself,” said David. He suddenly kicked out one leg and his sparring partner whirled away and then fell when David followed up with a strike of his hand to his neck.
“I don’t want you to do that to me,” Hazel whispered to Misty.
Misty laughed. “I have only one person in mind when I’m practicing this.”
By the end of their class, Misty had a better appreciation for the skills involved and realized how skilled David was.
“Anyone going to Jake’s?” Hazel asked.
“I’m not. But I’d be happy to give you a ride,” said Misty.
“Okay, if I stop by and see you, Misty?” asked David. “I’d like to talk to you about something.”
“Sure,” she said. “That would be nice.” He looked like he wanted to do more than talk, and she liked the idea.
###
After dropping Hazel off at Jake’s, Misty drove home excited to have some time alone with David. They’d both been busy, and she’d missed being with him. She thought about him all the time. David was a great guy, and she didn’t want to lose the growing relationship she had with him.
He pulled his truck in behind her car.
While she waited for him to join her at the front door, she worked on the security system and rushed inside to turn it off.
David stood at the front entrance laughing while Sugar raced in circles, running to Misty and then over to him.
Misty picked her up and then handed her to David. “We’re both excited to see you.”
His eyes focused on her, and a bright smile lit them. “I’m glad. We haven’t had many chances to be together.”
“No,” she agreed. “Come in. How about something cold to drink? Beer? Lemonade? Iced Tea?
“Ice water is fine for me after that workout,” said David.
“You’re really good, you know,” said Misty, handing him a glass of water. “We can sit outside where it’s cool.”
