The whole day followed a similar pattern of compliments, questions, and well-wishes. I was impressed with myself for not shying away like normal. It's not like I started speaking and socializing, but I stayed with Noah as he talked to everyone.
When it was time for lunch, Noah had an odd request. "Let's go by the inner courtyard." He told me as we went the long way to our usual table.
Knowing Noah, I knew he was up to something so I kept my eyes open as I followed him obediently. The inner courtyard was another place to have lunch, but it was only benches and trees with no tables. Very shady, but I rather be out in the sun. I was learning that even in May, Northern California was way cooler than the South.
