"I suppose we are. If I think I love him, how will I know for sure?"
"Georgia, there are no guarantees when it comes to love. Look what happened to your mother."
Her eyes opened wide. "Now, I'm really scared."
Jackie laughed. "I know that feeling too. I don't let anyone get close to me either, although Michael would make a very good husband. I just can't seem to let go of my fear of loving again."
"We are in the same boat."
"Yes we are."
"After you leave, will you keep in touch?" Georgia asked.
"I will. I am eager to hear how it works out between you and Austin."
"So am I."
Jackie stood up. "Know what I think? I think we should go shopping."
"I thought you didn't want me to leave the hotel."
"I don't, but that's what face time on a cellphone is for. Why don't I go find a store, show you what they have and you can tell me what to bring up for you to try on."
"Could we?"
"Of course we could, and know what else?"
"What?"
"Austin will have to pay the bill - at least until you have your own account."
At last, Georgia smiled.
*
In the evening, Georgia watched movies with Jackie, ate her fill of popcorn, drank soft drinks, and talked. It didn't help. All she could think about was Austin. More often than she should have, she went to the window, but his curtains were still closed.
"He called this morning while you were still asleep," Jackie mentioned.
"Why?"
"To see if you are all right."
"He gave me a cellphone; he could have called me to see if I am well."
"Men are a bit stubborn sometimes."
"If this is what love is like, perhaps I don't want it."
Jackie knowingly nodded. "It's the waiting that gets to us the most."
"Yes, it is the waiting."
"I am afraid there is no cure, even after he admits he loves you."
"That's not the least bit encouraging."
Jackie laughed. "Another movie?"
"Might as well, but not a love story. I could not bear it."
*
"Jackie, I can't thank you enough," said Austin over the phone early Tuesday morning. "Has the lab called yet?"
"They just called. They have her blood sample and they are starting the process now."
"Does she need anything?"
"How about another security guard to take her to court?"
"Already arranged. They'll pick her up at eight thirty."
"She'll be ready. We'll be gone by the time you get out of court."
"This is goodbye then. Thank you again for everything."
"She's a sweet girl. I am amazed at how sweet she is, considering what she's been through." Jackie waited, but he didn't comment. "Let me know how she is from time to time. Goodbye, Austin."