Texas Size Love by Carlotta Hamilton

Where would you like to go, Ma’am? A new planet or another galaxy? It is up to you. 

“Wait, did you say another planet? Where am I? And…what year is this?” 

My apologies, Ma’am, things do move quite fast around here. You are in your Enchantment Awaits package you ordered online during the Black Friday Deal. I’m assuming you did not read the fine print. 

“You would be correct, Sir.” 

No one ever does, no worries. I will fill you in. This package is filled with extravagant activities, but we also spiced it up with time travel. That is why you had to fill out so much paperwork. 

“It did seem rather long. So did we time travel to the future or the past?” 

The future of course, it’s the only way. 

“And the year?” 

The year is 2078. We’re not permitted to take you out of the century. 

“Good to know.” 

So, my dear, where would you like to go? 

“Austin, Texas, please.” 

Austin? Any particular reason why? 

“I grew up there, it was eclectic and growing fast, I want to see how it looks now.” 

Sure, my dear, as you wish. Before I push this button that could turn your brain to mush, I should tell you my name, it is Brent Coswalts. I have been in this line of work for years; it brings me joy to put smiles on people’s faces and money into my pocket. So again, my dear, are you ready for the Enchantment That Awaits? You see what I did there? 

“Yes Sir, I did.” 

Well, shall we? 

“We shall.” 

Mr. Coswalts grabbed a tiny silver gadget out of his pocket and pushed one of the three buttons on it. I knew there was going to be bright lights and thunderous noises, but there wasn’t. There was a sweet calmness that felt like a gentle shift in time, and then she heard, `Ma’am, we are here.’ 

“That was quick.” 

Yes, Ma’am. We are on a pretty tight schedule at the moment. You have exactly two hours to see and explore all what Austin 2078 has to offer. 

“Where will I find you?” 

I will find you, Ma’am. He pulled the gadget out of his pocket and said that is what this button is for. Then, he vanished. 

I took a deep breath, then looked around to see if the vibrant vibe of Austin was still intact 50 years later, and it was. The Pecan trees towered the city. The people were hospitable, creating moments of eye contact and casual conversation. Parks could still be seen within the city, and it still felt like home. I wondered if my favorite coffee shop was still intact. Did my daughter stay in the city or move out like me? With time fleeting quickly, I caught an uber that was hanging at the edge of the park. “5775 Airport Boulevard, please.” 

Kick Butt Coffee? 

“Yes, Sir, does it still exist?” 

Does it, they built two more floors! The college kids love it, and some say it still has that old Austin feel. 

“That’s why I loved it!” When we arrived, it looked amazing! Grand windows, exquisite lighting, and some of the best coffee aromas you could dream of. When I went to pay the driver for the ride, he refused. 

“Really?” I gasped. 

You betcha, this conversation was payment enough. Just remember me when you get back to your time zone. 

“Fascinating, isn’t it? I will definitely read the fine print from now on. What is your name, Sir?” 

Chase, Ma’am. 

“Well, I know you’re not fifty so, you aren’t born in my time.” 

Precisely, I just made thirty-three last week. 

“Well, it has been a pure delight Chase, I will remember your name.” 

Pleasure was all mine.

I walked into the café and was greeted with kindness by the barista.

Welcome in, what can I get you started with?

“Mocha Latte, please.” 

You got it...name? 

“Brenae.”  

Take a seat and I will get it to you soon.  

I scanned the room to see if any art was still displayed on the original floor. A small stage still sat in the corner waiting for someone to perform on. Upon taking my seat I saw a woman who looked just like me. She was wearing a soft brown coat, hooped earrings, stirring her coffee, and reading a book. Could that be my daughter, Alicia? Age and look seem to be right. 

“Mocha latte for Brenae,” the barista said aloud and the lady looked up. Our eyes locked. She very slowly put her book down on the mahogany table. 

Mama? Is that you? 

“If your name is Alicia, I certainly am.” Alicia ran across the cafe and gave me an enormous hug. 

How are you looking so young? I just saw you yesterday. 

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, sweetie.  You stayed in Austin after all?” 

Yes, I did. It always had a hold on me that I couldn’t let go. 

There was the Enchantment I needed. If Alicia saw me yesterday then I must have come back to Austin too. 

“Well, what in the world of reunions do we have here?” Mr. Coswalts uttered behind the two ladies. 

“This is my daughter, Alicia, isn’t she beautiful?” 

She indeed is, pleasure to meet you, Alicia. 

“Pleasure, Sir.” 

Well Ma’am, your two hours are now complete. Please say your goodbyes and I will be waiting for you right over there. 

“What an adventure, Mama! Any words of wisdom for me?” 

I took her face in my hands and said, “Be Courageous, Confident, and Cool in everything you do my dear.”

Who knew, 50 years in the future I would find my daughter at the place we loved to go. The more things change, the more they stay the same.” I hugged her again and walked out the door with Mr. Coswalts.

The End

Texas Size Love (c) Copyright 2026 by Carlotta Hamilton