I looked at the check Mary gave me as I put my pants back on. I walked into the kitchen, and showed the check to Brandy who was sitting at the table, having breakfast.
“What’s this?” She said.
“My ticket home.” I said.
“Oh..I…ok.”
“What?”
“Nothing.”
“What?”
“I want you to stay.”
I looked at her, she had that same forlorn look in her eyes that Ashley did that day…
“I’m sorry,” I said. “I’m cashing this and leaving today.”
I gave her a kiss, shouldered my backpack, waved goodbye, and left.
I ran down to where I left my bike, and pulled out my cell phone. I called Ashley, I got the voice mail.
“Hey, Ashley. It’s Tom.” I said. “I’m going home and I was wondering if you were. Well, whether you are or not, you’re the best thing that ever happened to me, and call me back sometime. Thanks again. Bye.”

I kicked my motorcycle to life and sped off to home.