The Romantic Pact (Kings of Football)(53)
“It is,” I answer as he slips on his boxer briefs under his towel. It’s not the first time he’s performed the magic trick of getting dressed in front of me without showing any private parts. He must do something like it at college to be such an expert and to be so comfortable changing in front of me.
“Have you opened it?” He slips his jeans on, followed by his shirt, and then he grabs a pair of socks.
“No, I wouldn’t do that without you.”
He nods at the envelope and says, “Read it.”
“I thought you were the narrator of this trip,” I tease.
“Nah, you should read one. Have at it, Haze.” He smirks and sits on the bed to put his socks on.
It’s disgusting how quickly guys can get ready for the day.
With my index finger, I open the envelope and take out the letter. I unfold it carefully and smile to myself as I read out loud. “‘Hey kiddos, hope you had fun in Würzburg. Being the start of the Romantic Road, it holds fond memories for me. Crew, it does for your parents as well, as they went on this trip many years ago. I think you were conceived there.’”
“What?” Crew grimaces, causing me to laugh out loud.
“Just kidding,” I say. “I added that myself.”
Crew points a serious finger at me. “Hey, no improv allowed, or your privileges will be taken away.”
“Understood.” I smirk and go back to the letter. “‘Today you’re headed to Tauberbischofsheim.’”
“Glad I didn’t have to read that.” Crew laughs, coming over to me and taking a seat next to me. “Glad I didn’t have to read that after three full glasses of wine, too.”
“‘This is the home of Germany’s first nunnery, which makes it seem fitting to go to St. Martin’s first thing. It’s a beautiful church in the center of town with gothic architecture that you’ll hopefully appreciate while walking through the quiet and peaceful halls. I know you two aren’t heavily religious, but I do ask that you go into the church and light three candles. One candle for the past—the memories we have with each other, the ones we’ll always cherish. Think of a past memory in that moment, one that brings joy to your heart. Secondly, I want you to light a candle for the present. For the moment you two are able to share on this journey. And the third candle, light that for the future, and what’s to come.’” I look over at Crew and ask, “Have you ever been to a Catholic church before?”
He nods. “Many times, with Pops. I’ve lit candles before too. I’ll guide you.”
“Thank you.” I return to the letter, reading out loud. “‘After you offer a little peace and blessing into the world, it’s time to put your competitive hats on because you’re going fencing.’”
“Fencing?” Crew asks, confused.
“‘Tauberbischofsheim isn’t just another beautiful stop on the way down the Romantic Road, but it’s also well known in Germany for housing the most famous fencing club in the world. Currently, it’s a training base for Olympic athletes, and I’ve arranged for you to take a lesson and then go to war. This is where you’re to take out any leftover aggressions you might have with each other. Hazel Girl, I know you’re going to destroy Crew. All I ask is that you take it a little easy on him.’”
“What? No way. I’ll annihilate you.”
“What makes you think that?” I ask, challenging him.
“Uh, my superior athletic genes. Pretty sure you don’t even know the difference between a baseball and a tennis ball.”
“With insults like that, you’re only adding fuel to the fire of my gloating when I do beat you.”
“It’s cute that you’re so confident.”
“It’s throw-up-worthy that you’re so condescending.” I turn back to the letter and finish it. “‘All the information you need is attached. Winner gets to pick the other’s dinner. You got this, Hazel Girl. Love you, Pops.’”
“Oh, I can’t wait to pick the worst thing on the menu for you tonight.” Crew rubs his hands together.
“You’re woefully cocky.”
“Of course I am. This is going to be a piece of cake.”
There’s a knock on the door, indicating our breakfast has arrived. I stand to answer the door, and as I pass Crew, I pat him on the shoulder and say, “You might want to add a few extra prayers while we’re lighting candles. You’re going to need them.”
Chapter Ten
CREW
“I’ve been in my fair share of Catholic churches, especially while on road trips with Pops. He always liked to stop in one and light a candle for Gloria.” I study the high, pitched ceilings and elegant rose-colored stone that offers height to each pillar. “But I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like this before.”
Polished wooden pews are lined up row after row, leaving just enough room for an aisle down the middle. The altar is beautifully carved wood with depictions from the Bible highlighted in gold, with stained-glass windows on either side, and a dome-like ceiling. It’s grand, but also humble, with its white plaster walls. A contrast of rich history and architectural detail you don’t see in America.