In the lobby, just like before her first first date with Train Guy, Nadia saw Gaby.
‘I can’t stop!’ Nadia said. ‘I can’t be late!’ she trilled, thinking of how her conversation with Gaby was the thing that had held her up last time.
‘You won’t be!’ Gaby said, reaching out for her wrist.
Nadia spun around and looked down to where her friend held her.
‘Listen to me,’ Gaby said. ‘Daniel wanted me to tell you something. I’m here as your first clue on where to go.’
Nadia balked. ‘You spoke to him?’
‘I did. He said to tell you to stop in front of anyone wearing a yellow rose.’ Nadia suddenly realized Gaby was wearing a yellow rose, clipped to the top of her dress. ‘There are things he wants to say, before you get to where you’re going. The first one is that you are clever and kind and smart and he promises this: that this time he won’t waste your time. He’ll be there.’
Nadia didn’t know what to say. ‘Okay …’
‘He promises he’ll be good to you, Nadia. Now, go. Wait outside. Look for the yellow roses.’
Nadia looked at her friend.
‘Go!’ Gaby said, smiling.