love and loss were brought to new life by the people on the stage, the elaborate sets, and the talented orchestra. The lighting itself was a masterpiece and perfectly set off every scene. She could find no flaw and the story took her in until she almost forgot where she was. Brad sat next to her and also enjoyed the show, but even more, he enjoyed watching her respond to it so deeply.
When the show was over, Brad looked at Aliyah and a crazy idea started to form in his head. “Aliyah, is there any way you could get another day off?”
“I have a few more days saved up and they told me that they don’t really need me until later because one of the girls is trying to pick up extra hours. Why?” Aliyah asked in a hopeful voice.
“I don’t want this to end yet, and love, I have a great idea, but I’m not telling you. You aren’t afraid to fly, are you?” Brad’s eyebrow rose as he looked intently at her, hoping that she would make a good companion in his jet.
“I’m not afraid, but I’ve never done it.” They laughed and Brad immediately got on the phone, as late as it was, to set up the plans. He used code words to keep Aliyah from knowing where they would end up.
***
The next day was a dream for them both. They woke up to the sound of the birds on the country estate. As much as Aliyah hated the idea of leaving the big, cozy fireplace and the kitchen where they flirted and ate just enough to give them the energy for more love, she was so excited by the prospect of travel that she almost tingled. Her stomach felt as if it were full of butterflies and her heart pounded in a healthy and happy way.
Brad couldn’t wait to show Aliyah the huge, famous theatre that had housed so many famous productions. They packed swiftly and headed for the small, local airport. Someone had been hard at work bringing the jet in the night and making sure that it was ready to go. It was all so new for Aliyah. She couldn’t imagine picking up a phone and summoning so many nice things and having so many people take care of her every need and desire.
They walked to the jet and climbed up the steps into it. The plush sofa in the jet was the perfect place to cuddle throughout the flight. The two looked out the window and Aliyah nestled into Brad’s arms. The flight itself was uneventful, with little turbulence and no problems along the way. They landed easily and found their way to a waiting limousine. Once again, Aliyah was shocked with the luxury of it all, but still she knew that her true joy was from the man at her side. His warmth, kindness, and attention to her was the real gift. She had been with men before who could make any situation a trial. Even if they had been born into all of the money in the world, they would have made her unhappy with their selfishness and ability to make those around them unhappy. This man was nice to look at on the outside but also nice to know on the inside. His conversation was stimulating and she felt like a queen when she was with him.
The limousine took them to a beautiful, old restaurant before the show. Aliyah played with Brad throughout the meal, trying to get him to tell her where they were going. She didn’t really care as long as she was with him, but she had fun teasing him and trying to get him to give something away. He pretended to have spilled a hint and then tell her that he hadn’t given anything away. At one point he said, “Oh, fine then. I’ll tell you. We’re going to a chicken farm.”
Aliyah looked at him blankly for a moment and then said, “Hey! That sounds fun! I hope it isn’t one of the mean ones that shove the chickens in little boxes, but free range chickens must be cute! What time are we going?”
Her genuine interest in so many things made him throw his head back and laugh. “Oh, love. You’re adorable. Of course I’m not taking you to a chicken farm tonight. You’re definitely not dressed for it.” He chuckled again. “Love, if you want, I will buy