“That’s…convenient,” Tessa said, smiling.
The bellman pointed out the welcome tray of fresh fruit, cheese, crackers and wine. He gave her a quick rundown on the hotel’s other amenities and location. “You’ve chosen a great hotel for your visit. Just let us know if you need anything.”
Tessa tipped him, locked the door and stripped off her grimy travel clothes. The hotel had also supplied her with bubble bath, which she poured under the hot, running water. Tessa climbed into her tub with the view of Sydney and before she knew it, was snoring once again.
The bath water was cold when Tessa woke to a voice at her door. “Hotel concierge,” the voice announced, followed by a few gentle knocks. By the time Tessa wrapped herself in a towel and stepped to the door the concierge was gone, but a small creamy white envelope lay on the floor at her feet. She recognized the seal.
Welcome to Sydney, Tessa. Please take this evening and tomorrow to rest and acclimate yourself. Jetlag is a bear! I’ll call you tomorrow evening to introduce myself and tell you about the day we will share on Wednesday. If you have problems, please feel free to call me. Also, Carmen is available to you any time, day or night. Our cell numbers are below. Looking forward to meeting you Wednesday. Jason Tate.
The envelope shook in Tessa’s hand, and it wasn’t because of sleep deprivation or travel fatigue.
-10-
WEDNESDAY
Good morning, David. The sun is rising here, and from my window I can watch the harbor water as it turns from Dawn Gray to Hello Sunshine Blue. This place is amazing. I was too wiped out from the flight to do anything until yesterday afternoon. I took in the sights around the hotel and even walked the mile to the Opera House. What a sight!
Tessa paused, her fingers hovering over her laptop. Should she be a little daring? Why not, Carmen had suggested she begin to open herself up more to David, and besides, she was the Daring New Tessa now that she was ready for field therapy.
But sights abound in Sydney, and even this hotel. The wall between the bedroom and bath is glass. I can (and have) laid in the tub and gazed at the view outside: tall buildings, both old and new, and even a small piece of Darling Harbor. From the bathtub! Amazing.
Today I begin some of that personal work I came here to do. I don’t mean to be mysterious or sound weird. It’s just that it’s…very personal, and for now, not something I can share. Just know that it’s important to me and will help me become a happier person, better able to (as the poster says) ‘live, love and laugh.’
I hope everything’s good in Chicago. Stay warm!
Fondly, Tessa
Tessa shut down her laptop and headed for a shower. Room service would deliver a light breakfast soon. And at 8:00, Jason Tate would knock on her door.
***
He was tall, with sandy brown hair, broad shoulders and a quick, easy smile.
“Jason Tate. Nice to meet you Tessa.”
Tessa held out her hand, for a shake, and immediately felt stupid. This wasn’t exactly a business meeting, though Jason was here for business.
Jason took Tessa’s hand, shook it gently, and said, “Have you thought of any questions?”
She and Jason had spoken on the phone the evening before and Jason had encouraged her to ask anything. She had been too shell-shocked to know what to say. She was no better today.