That sounded like a good plan.
◊◊◊ Thursday January 12
I woke to the sound of someone knocking on my door. The clock on the nightstand said it was noon. If I didn’t get up, my sleep pattern would be seriously off.
“I’m awake!” I called out.
Aunt Bonnie stuck her head in the door.
“We’re meeting Cindy and the other people from Ohio State in an hour.”
“At the house?” I asked.
“No, at some fancy restaurant. Lexi set it up as a thank you for their work. After lunch, we’re touring your new home.”
“Guess I’d better get in the shower.”
I was glad Lexi had thought to do something for them. I’d been focused on the series and other personal matters this week.
When I got out of the shower, I checked my phone. That was a mistake. My friends were more than amused by my crying scene. The producers of the J-drama had put out a trailer to hype the show, which included a quick clip of me in tears.
I saw a message from Saul saying that Netflix was in negotiations to air the episodes worldwide. They’d picked up several shows from Japan, China, and Korea. I admit that I’d binge-watched a few of the Asian shows and enjoyed them. I was happy for the cast because it would expose their talent to the world.
As I scrolled through the list of messages, I was disappointed that I didn’t see anything from Brook. She’d been upset about the move. I figured she needed some time, so I left it for now.
◊◊◊
Fritz had given Manaia the day off and was my security for the day. He picked up Lexi, my aunt and uncle, Grandma Dawson, and me and took us to Little Beach House Malibu. I was glad that Lexi had chosen this particular place because I liked it and would have picked it if asked.
They were busy today, so we weren’t able to all sit together. I found myself at a table with Cindy, Dean Lloyd, Professor Donaldson, and Professor Katz. We’d scored a table on the terrace with a spectacular view of the ocean.
“When I researched the area for the trip, this was one of the places I wanted to come to. If I’d known you were a member, I would have called you sooner,” Professor Katz said.
“What do you mean?” Professor Donaldson asked.
“This is part of the worldwide Soho House private members clubs. The club is a little different because it caters specifically to people in creative fields,” I explained.
“Fancy,” Cindy said with a smile.
I rolled my eyes at her. I was glad when our server appeared with menus.
“Can I get breakfast?” I asked. “I didn’t get home from filming until four this morning.”
“Breakfast service stops at 11:30, but let me ask. What can I get you to drink?” she asked.
“I’m going to have the yerba mate tea,” I said.
“What is yerba mate?” Cindy asked.
“It’s a holly found in Central and South America. When I filmed
“What does it taste like?” Dean Lloyd asked.
“It’s an acquired taste. I would compare it to the first time you try coffee. You’re not crazy about the bitterness, but once you figure out what it does for you, then you crave it. Yerba mate’s flavor is like a combination of dirt, grass, and what you would guess the ashes in your fireplace taste like.”
“That sounds gross,” Cindy said.
“It’s weird. The more you drink it, the better it gets. It’s like a fine cigar. Your palate changes over time, and it becomes enjoyable. It’s hard to describe,” I offered.
“I’ll try it,” Dean Lloyd said.
They all decided to get it. They didn’t end up liking it, but I was impressed that they were adventurous and willing to experience something new. Although they all agreed that it tasted nasty, they loved the jolt of caffeine. That it was on the menu meant I wasn’t the only one who had discovered it.
“Cindy tells me that you might have more projects for us,” Dean Lloyd said.
“Cindy and I went to high school together, and because of that, I know she understands what I like in decorating,” I said.
I wanted to make sure they knew it was because of her they might get access. I explained that I’d obtained the condos in a legal settlement and didn’t have any idea whether they would need any upgrades.
“Well, I’d be willing to jet off to Monaco for you,” Professor Katz offered.
“Get in line. I’ve already had one of my employees volunteer to go to Whistler for a ski vacation,” I shared.
“I think what Professor Katz is trying to say is that we would love to have a chance to offer internships for other projects. The Malibu house has been a nice change from what we normally offer, and I would like to continue to do projects like this,” Dean Lloyd said.
“Like I said, I’m not even sure anything needs to be done to them,” I said to hedge my bets.
I ended up having to order off the regular menu and had the turkey club.
◊◊◊
