What We Search For (11 page)

I’m very happy to report
my sister Sarah is out of her coma and healthy again. I ended up going home to
Australia to be here when she woke up and everything is turning out well.

Sorry I haven’t been in
touch since we parted ways!

I hope this email finds
you well. Take care and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

James

Sarah hovered
over the send button for a moment as she looked up at me. I nodded my agreement
and she sent the email. Sighing in what might have been relief, I looked at
Sarah who had an amused expression on her face. “What is it?” I asked curtly.

“Nothing, I
just thought it might help if we sent the email with her email address in it.”
She said, trying to keep a straight face while holding back her laughter.

“Damn it.” I
said, frustration edging into my voice. Re-sending the email correctly I shook
my head and smiled. “Thanks for the heads up. I would have been waiting for a
response wondering what was taking so long.” I said and laughed.

“I have to
look after you more than you know sometimes Jam.” She replied.

We bantered
together for the remainder of the day. It was great to spend time with Sarah
one on one, as inevitably I would be leaving overseas again, sooner rather than
later. Who knew how long it would be before I would see her again. Everything
was turning out better than I had ever expected. Throwing negative thoughts to
the wind, we happily enjoyed each other’s company.

Days passed by, and each
morning I would check my inbox with anticipation. So far I had heard nothing
back. I tried putting it out of my mind, but it didn’t help much. After the
fourth day I finally found a response from Amanda waiting for me.

Hi James!

It’s great to hear from
you again! I was beginning to wonder if I would at all. I’m so happy that your
sister is better. That’s such great news you must be so relieved. You’re a
great brother for heading home to be there when she woke up. Your sister is
very lucky to have you.

I’ve been great thanks,
and yes I’ve gotten back into work (unfortunately!!) but it had to happen. Now
I just need to get back to saving some money so I can fund my next adventure!

You should definitely come
and visit me. That would be fantastic. When were you thinking of heading back
overseas? I hope a futon would be alright? It’s super comfortable! I promise!

Keep in touch. I’m looking
forward to hearing from you.

Amanda.

Smiling at her
reply, I scolded myself for taking so long to get in touch with her. I focused
my attention on writing a reply, assuring her that a futon would be more than
suitable. I also added I didn’t have a solid date in which I would be heading
overseas again, but finished with a promise I would be keeping in touch.

Mum was sitting on the
couch with Dad as I walked into the lounge room. They were quietly watching TV
as I joined them. “So I think I will head back overseas.” I said as I sat down.

“That’s fantastic dear!
Where are you thinking this time?” My mother replied, turning her attention to
me. Dad kept watching TV but grunted to show he was listening.

“I’m thinking LA. Did I
mention before Amanda had invited me to visit her?” I started. Mum nodded.

“Yes, you definitely told
us about that. Probably a thousand times.” She said, smiling as she nudged Dad
in the ribs.

“Yes, heard that one
before.” He said, turning to look at me with a hint of a grin.

“Well I just got an email
from her saying she would like me to come over.” I said, with a broad smile on
my face.

“Good for you son. You
should get back out there and do what you enjoy while you get the chance. Just remember,
you can’t be globetrotting your whole life, you’ll have to settle down one
day!” He said in his gruff voice.

“Thanks Dad. I know, but
for now I haven’t finished my adventures. There’s so much more for me to find. And
I’d really like to spend more time with Amanda. You never know what will
happen!” I said, with the cheesiest grin I could muster.

Dad nodded once and turned
his head, but not before I saw a glimmer of a smile flicker across his lips. He
never said much but he always meant well. Mum watched the exchange and smiled
softly.

“Whatever you end up doing,
we’re proud of you James. Never give up on your dreams.” She said. I smiled my
warmest smile.

“Thanks Mum! That means a
lot to me.” I replied.

My mind was made up and a
path was laid out in front of me. I would have to say my farewells to Sarah,
which was going to be difficult. Planning the trip was easy enough, and after
emailing back and forward with Amanda we agreed on a time and date. Everything
was set in motion. My next adventure was about to begin.

Standing in the airport
terminal with my mother, father, sister and brother-in-law I looked up at the
flights board. My flight was on time and would be boarding very soon. Looking
at each person in turn, I noticed the mixture of emotions playing across each
face.

My mother was proud as
punch to see her little boy exploring the world once again, yet she also showed
her sadness of me leaving.

My father’s stony face
betrayed nothing at all, apart from a softening around the edges of his eyes.
Not something many people would be able to notice. He nodded as I looked at him
and we shared an unspoken exchange. I understood what he meant.

My sister was smiling, Alex’s
hand was on her shoulder. She dabbed at tears forming in her eyes, yet she was
clearly happy for me. Alex stood next to his wife hardly letting her have any
space. He had been like that since she had come out of her coma and Sarah
didn’t seem to mind one little bit. Alex smiled at me and winked and I returned
the gesture. We shook hands firmly.

“Well. I guess it’s about
time for me to head off.” I said to the group.

“It’s hard to say goodbye
but I know this is for your own good. Traveling has already changed you for the
better James.” Mum said, as she reached up to give me a kiss and hug, “I’ll
miss you darling. Take care of yourself.” She added.

“I’ll miss you too Mum.” I
replied, releasing her embrace. Surprisingly Dad took her place and held me for
a moment.

“Be safe Son.” He said in
his gruff voice, and he let go to place his arm around his wife.

“Keep in touch Jam and
don’t do anything stupid. If you need any advice just let me know and I’ll
obviously help you out.” Sarah said. We hugged for a few moments until she
released her arms and returned to her husband’s side.

“Have fun James” He said
with a smile.

“I’ll do just that Alex.
Thanks! Look after her will you?” I said, gesturing toward Sarah.

“Obviously.” He replied
still smiling, and held her closer.

Turning away from my
family was one of the harder things I’ve ever done. A frog was in my throat as
I walked towards the gate. Boarding had begun and I handed over my ticket.

“Thank you, sir.” The
attendant said, and I nodded my thanks. Slowly I walked down the ramp looking
up only once to wave to my family as they watched me go.

My flight from Adelaide
airport was not a direct flight. I landed in Sydney and changed to a plane
direct to LA. As far as international flying went, I was still fairly new to
it, and this particular flight was one of the longest I had ever experienced.
Probably due to the fact I was so excited to be at my destination, and I didn’t
manage to get any sleep. Having a child in the seat behind me, kicking the back
of my chair was no help to my cause.

I managed to endure, as I
thought of what was waiting for me on my arrival. I pictured Amanda standing at
the gate waving at me, more beautiful than ever. I would rush over to her and
give her a hug which lifted her off of the ground, and we would spin for a
moment lapsing into a kiss. I shook my head trying to clear my overly ambitious
thoughts. Perhaps we weren’t quite at the spinning embrace level.

A soft chuckle left my
lips and my neighbor looked over to me with a curious look on his face. “Sorry.
Just something I was thinking of.” I said in quick defense.

“That’s alright.” He
responded. “You looked like you were having a good time whatever you were
laughing at.”

“Yeah. I was caught up in
my own little fantasy world!” I said, smiling.

“We’ve all done that
before!” He replied, sharing my smile. He returned his attention to his book
and I returned mine to my fantasy.

Brad and Chris would never
let me hear the end of it if I ever shared such thoughts with them. Grinning at
the thought of the boys, and I hoped I would be seeing them again sometime
soon.

Hours passed and we made
our landing at LAX. I looked out the window and it seemed to be getting late in
the day. The flight had taken near enough to 15 hours to make my head felt like
it was stuffed with cotton wool.

The plane came to a stop
and a hostess welcomed us to LA, giving us the local time and wishing us well.
Gathering my things I stood and stretched in the isle as the doors were finally
opened. A steady stream of people made their way off the plane.

Slinging my backpack over
my shoulder I joined in the progression and entered the warmth of the airport
tunnel. Walking stiff legged up the ramp, I followed the others from the flight
and finally found my way to the carousel.

Amanda was due to meet me
here and I looked around while waiting for my bags. She was nowhere to be seen.
Collecting my bags, I walked away from the commotion, found an empty seat and
sat down. As I sat, I closed my eyes.

Something was on my
shoulder shaking me. I tried to remove it, but it kept on shaking. Opening my
eyes drowsily, I understood I had fallen asleep. A hand lay on my shoulder, and
a familiar face was hovering over me speaking slowly.

“I’m so sorry James! I
hope you didn’t have to wait long.” Amanda started, “I got caught up due to an
accident on the highway.” She said, as she removed her hand from my shoulder.

Stretching and attempting
to stifle a yawn, I looked up at her solemn face. I had no idea how long I had
been sleeping, but upon a quick check, all my belongings seemed to be where I
had left them. Thankfully.

“It’s fine! Don’t worry
about it!” I said, getting slowly to my feet, “It’s great to see you! Can’t
believe I fell asleep though.” I added, laughing at myself, “How have you
been?” I asked happily.

Leaning towards her I
extended my arms and we embraced. There was no lifting or spinning, but it was
long and warm, and she smelled like a perfect spring day.

“I’ve been great thanks!”
She replied. Leaning away from me she looked me in the eyes, and a hint of
concern crossed her face, “It’s such a long flight, did you manage to get any
sleep on the way over?” She asked.

“Not a wink. Probably one
of the worst flights I’ve ever been on, but that doesn’t matter now. I’m here!”
I said as I stretched once more and set to gathering my things.

“You look like shit.” She
said bluntly, grinning afterward. I couldn’t help but laugh.

“Thanks. I made sure to
look my best for when I saw you.” I replied.

“Oh I can really see where
you put the effort in. Messy hair is so in these days, and don't get me started
on drool patches! They’re all the rage!” She said laughing, pointing out a spot
on my shirt which I had clearly drooled on.

“I’m all about setting new
fashion trends.” I said, striking a pose.

“You’re totally pulling it
off!” Amanda replied with a grin, “Let’s get you out of here before the paparazzi
catch on.” She added, placing her hand on my back as she ushered me along,
pretending to shield me from photos.

“What would I do without
you?” I replied as we walked along, “Seriously though. Thanks for coming to get
me.” I added with a smile.

“Not a problem at all! Now
let’s get you home so you can sleep before you start drooling on yourself
again.” Amanda said, as she led the way. She smiled at me and her eyes were
full of laughter.

“Sleep would be great, but
do you think we could grab some food on the way? I’m starving!” I said,
ignoring her little barb as we walked out of the airport, and into the dusk
air.

“How about I throw
something together for you when we get home?” Amanda asked.

“That would be great.
Anything is fine, I just need to fill a hole in my stomach.” I replied.

Walking to her car, we
spoke of Sarah and my family, and what we had each been up to since we last
met.

“It’s been fine, but
honestly I’ve got the travel bug now it’s really hard to sit in one place.” She
was saying, “I enjoy my job and my co-workers are great, but it’s just not the
same as exploring somewhere new and meeting such amazing people on the road.
Traveling really grabs hold of you.” She added.