Annie turned the car into the Christiana Mall. "Already so we have about 3 hours to our flight and we're still about 45 minutes away. We need to be in and out very quickly. One set of clothes each."
As Annie, Eyal, and Avi exited the vehicle and walked towards the building Avi grabbed Annie's hand. She was surprised but didn't comment. Eyal noticed and smiled.
The trio entered Macy's and Eyal took Avi to the men's section, Annie separated to the women's. She selected a pale blue and green spring dress and paired that with some comfortable beige sandals. She threw her running clothes in a bag and made her way to the register to check out.
In the men's department Eyal picked out tan shorts and a high quality light blue Polo shirt. He then took Avi to the boys department and watched as his son picked out a similar outfit. He laughed when Avi emerged from the changing room; they looked like twins. Last stop: new sandals, tan and comfy.
Annie met Eyal in the shoe department and had to giggle and the sight before her; Eyal and Avi were dressed alike and she matched too. They all appeared to be thinking alike. Eyal looked up and spotted Annie. She was wearing something simple but looked absolutely perfect to him. He smiled and held out his hand.
They paid for Eyal's and Avi's clothes and made their way out to the car. Avi took both their hands and they swung him. Avi thought this was the greatest new game. Eyal and Annie couldn't help but smile.
Annie drove to the airport. The whole way they exchanged very few words and listened to Avi talk about anything and everything.
As they pulled into Philadelphia Annie looked over at Eyal. "Are you sure you want me on this plane?" Annie asked of Eyal in English.
He looked at her dumbfounded. Of course he wanted her on that plane! He was going to take her to Israel. She was going to meet his family. He was shocked she was would ask that. Very quietly he replied, "I thought you forgave me."
Annie took his hand. "I have, this is just a big step. If we do this there is no going back for me. I care too much Eyal."
Eyal smiled at her. She didn't know how completely she had his heart. "Yes. I want this. I need you Annie. Please get on that plane with Avi and I; I'm asking you."
Annie met Eyal's gaze, she could see the care in his eyes. "Alright let's go, this conversation is not over, but let's get on the plane."
Avi watched the exchange in the front seat. It was obvious they had things to work out, but he knew they both cared about each other and she appeared to be coming so that was enough for now.
The three got out of the car and walked towards the stop where the bus would take them from the parking lot to the terminal. Avi grabbed Annie's hand as they waited. The three chatted in Hebrew waiting for the bus, then through printing their tickets, and security. Annie translated for Avi when the staff needed him to do certain things. Eyal noted she was a natural with children.
After getting through security they had about 20 minutes until they boarded their flight. They bought some food and headed for their gate.
Avi seemed so comfortable with Annie, Eyal thought it was amazing.
When their flight was called they stood and Avi pulled Annie towards the gate. He seemed very excited. Their tickets were checked and they boarded their flight. "Can I have the window seat? Avi asked looking up at Annie. "This is only my second flight."
"Sure" Annie laughed. She took the middle with Eyal on the aisle, leaving him some legroom.
The plane took off and Avi quickly fell asleep.