Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
“For one thing we can't afford it.”
He sat and looked at me for at least ten or fifteen seconds, so long that I began squirm-
ing uncomfortably in my seat.
“What?” I asked irritably.
“How would you react if I told you I got us a really good deal on a pool?”
Deep breath. This was it. I looked out across the water towards the mountains of the big
island. At the same time, very methodically, I began the process of deactivating my anxiety
button, of neutralizing all those negative synapses that instinctively storm my brain at the
slightest sign of trouble.
Or conflict.
Or massive expenditure.
After all, this little trick had seen me through a world of trouble over the past few years.
“I'd say…” I began, suddenly at a rare loss for words.
Michael waited, tinkling the ice cubes in his glass, gazing out across the treetops, as
patient as time itself.
“I'd say,” I continued, finding my voice at last, “it'll be total hell to get decent pool
furniture shipped down here.”
Satisfied at last, he smiled and leaned back in his chair.
He knew he had me now.