Small Steps

Armpit flies first class to San Francisco, where he is met by a driver who takes him to the Wellington Arms Hotel in the heart of the city. Armpit worries about earthquakes, but his worries ease when he thinks about Ginny and how much she would love everything about this trip. He is given a room key to the restricted 21st floor of the hotel, normally reserved for VIPs. The two-room suite is luxurious, and he takes a much-needed shower before meeting Kaira. When Armpit is on his way to Kaira’s room, he is intercepted by Jerome, who invites Armpit into his room to see a baseball bat signed by Barry Bonds. Armpit is confused. He has no interest in baseball, but he plays along since Jerome is Kaira’s manager. Jerome insists that Armpit hold the bat and try a few swings, which Armpit halfheartedly does before excusing himself, thinking “that was weird” (218). When Armpit sees Kaira (with Fred standing beside her) he doesn’t hesitate to pull her in for a kiss. They smile and Kaira whispers, “I guess it was worth the wait” (219).