Chapter 44

A smile surfaced on the corners of my mouth, recognizing her voice. “Have you landed safely in Barcelona, my love?”

“I have. Let me tell you that was a trip from hell. I arrived in Barcelona an hour ago. I’m exhausted, hungry, and not at all a lady.”

I let out a soft laugh and listened to her tell me about her horrendous plane ride, an unexpected stop in London, missing luggage, and confusion with her passport. Following her spiel of complaints and irritation, I said, “As long as you’re safe, Francine. You had me worried.”

“I think I had myself worried.”

“Are you with Estella now?”

“Safe and cozy in her abode, Johnny. There’s no need for you to worry any longer.”

We talked for the next six minutes about her future plans in the abroad city with her cousin, shared some verbal love, and ended the connection.