Page 31 of Guarded Love

I scan the details. The program focuses on the political history and culture of Puerto Rico. It includes cultural immersion activities, visits to historical sites, and credit for a short intensive course.

"A week in Puerto Rico," I say as I think about whether I could make this happen. "The timing is..."

"Perfect," Ari finishes. "It's right after finals, the holidays, and before the spring semester starts."

She's right. The timing is perfect. Too perfect, almost, like the universe is handing me an escape route from this Virginia weather on a silver platter.

"I'd have to talk to my parents about the cost," I say, but I'm already calculating whether I could cover it myself. It’s not like I have Knox’s NIL money to throw around, although he would more than likely lend me the money to go. "This isn't exactly cheap."

"There's financial aid available," Ari points out, tapping a section of the flyer I hadn't read yet. "And it's all-inclusive. Flights, accommodations, most meals."

I fold the flyer carefully and tuck it into my bag. "I'll think about it."

"That's Willow-speak for I'm definitely doing this but don't want to admit it yet."

I roll my eyes, but don't contradict her. "I said I'll think about it."

My phone buzzes again, and this time I resist the urge to lunge for it. Instead, I take a deliberate sip of my now-cold coffee and make another face at the taste.

"You should get a fresh cup," Ari suggests.

"I've had enough caffeine," I say as I push the cup away. "Any more and I'll vibrate through the floor."

My phone buzzes a third time. With a sigh, I fish it out of my bag.

Three new emails.

None from Blaise.

Of course.

I shove the phone back into my bag with more force than necessary. "I need to go."

Ari raises an eyebrow. "Where?"

"Anywhere that isn't here." I start packing up my laptop. "I need to clear my head if I'm going to finish this housing article."

"And think about Puerto Rico?"

"And think about Puerto Rico," I repeat, zipping my laptop case and sticking it in my bookbag. I put my coat on and then look back at my friend. “Are you going to stay here?”

"I'll stick around for a bit," Ari says, pulling out her own laptop. "Got a sociology paper to finish."

"Good luck with that." I swing my bag over my shoulder, almost hitting a guy walking past our table. "Sorry."

Ari’s eyes shift from the guy back to me. “Text me later?"

"Always do." I sling my bag over my shoulder and head for the door, the Puerto Rico flyer burning a hole in my bag. The cold air hits me like a slap across the face when I step outside Brewed Beginnings. But I’m grateful for it because it shocks my system and clears the fog in my brain. I take a deep breath, letting the December air fill my lungs.

A week in Puerto Rico.

The thought lingers as I start walking to my car. A week away sounds great, especially because it means that my time at home will be shorter. Not that I have an issue with being home, but after being on my own at school, it’s harder to adjust to being under my parents’ roof again.

This trip would solve a lot of my problems.

I jump slightly when my phone buzzes in my pocket, and I nearly trip over my own two feet to grab it.

One new email.