Ch. 3: Summer Plans
Kayla collapsed breathless into a chair after several hours of the Time Warp. On Transsexual, the dance could last for not only hours, but even days at a time, provided there were plenty of sugary drinks available.
"This is really the life, isn't it?" Columbia asked, adjusting her gold top hat.
"Tell me about it. Nothing could equal this lifestyle."
"Hey, ladies!" Paul came up behind the pair, quickly kissing each girl's cheek before sitting down.
Kayla grinned at him while Columbia batted her lashes at him. Meanwhile, other guests were laughing, yelling, drinking, loving, and just plain enjoying themselves. Kayla sighed, completely content. She had not thought of her parents or her sisters often since leaving Earth and yet, she didn't mind not having them on her mind. Since her family had become wealthy, her family had ceased to be a family and now that she had these wonderful people in her life, she couldn't be happier.
"Everyone! Attention, please!" Silence descended immediately at the sound of Frank's voice. The castle's host, flanked by Riff and Magenta was standing at the front of the room, looking very pleased.
"I have decided that the time has come for all of us to take a vacation!" Loud applause greeted this statement and while she clapped, Kayla couldn't help but think,
Vacation? Life here is like one big vacation!
"Tomorrow, we shall depart for Earth, where, in the city of New York, a new luxurious hotel has just opened! And we shall be its first and, until the middle of August, only guests!"
This time, the cheering was louder. Apparently, everyone loved the idea of spending two months in New York City.
"Oh my God! New York City! I've always wanted to go there!" Columbia shrieked excitedly.
"Well, judging from your expectations, you won't be let down," Kayla replied.
"You've been there? Ooooh, what's it like?" Columbia's eager expression made Kayla laugh.
"You'll see. Besides, it's kinda different for everyone, depending on what you like."
"Well, you're okay with this, right? Going back to Earth, I mean?" Columbia, Kayla had noticed, could catch on to people's feelings quite quickly.
"Well, I am kind nervous. I mean, I don't know anyone in New York, but-"
"No worries, Kayla," Paul interrupted, wrapping his arm around her. "You'll be with us. Besides, what are people gonna do if they find out about you? You're over eighteen, after all."
This was true, but what really helped ease Kayla's mind was Frank. He was surrounded by admirers, as always, but he glanced over at her and winked at her. She smiled back, suddenly feeling much better.
"Yeah, you're right. It'll be fun."