Out of Focus (Love in LA #3)

ME:

I’m driving up to see my family for the day.

Before the thought is fully formed, I’m typing the words.

ME:

Ojai is on my way. Why don’t you come with me? I can drop you off and pick you up on my way back.

The three little dots appear, then disappear, then they’re back.

Come on, Charlie.

CHARLIE:

Are you sure?

Is it actually on the way?

I don’t want to impose.

I do eventually have to get over this whole driving on the right side thing.

I never drove in New York, but it seems inevitable here.

ME:

I’m sure. I basically drive through Ojai to get there. And you can learn when you’re comfortable. On calmer roads and not these unhinged LA streets. Cool?

CHARLIE:

Thank you.

What time are you leaving tomorrow?

Please don’t say some outrageously early hour.

Anything before 8, specifically.

I laugh at the sequence of texts.

ME:

I’m at your disposal. I just gotta be there for lunch or my grandmother will have my head.

CHARLIE:

I need something so much more specific than this.

ME:

How’s ten o’clock?

CHARLIE:

That’s great.

Thank you.