— I don’t think I’ve seen you here before, – he said. — I’m David, from the legal department.
— Susan, CFO, – she introduced herself.
— Ah, so you’re the one? The Susan Miller everyone’s talking about? – He looked at her with interest. — The legend of our office! Came in and in six months brought more order than anyone could in years.
Susan laughed, embarrassed.
— You’re exaggerating.
— Not at all. Could I treat you to a coffee as an apology for my clumsiness?
Susan hesitated for a second, then nodded.
— Why not?
They went to a small coffee shop near the office. The conversation was easy and natural. David turned out to be an interesting conversationalist with a good sense of humor. He talked about his work, a recent trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and his dog—a Labrador named Zeus. To her surprise, Susan felt very comfortable with him. For the first time in a long while, she was just chatting with a man, not expecting a catch, not analyzing his every word.
— So, how long have you been divorced? – he asked unexpectedly.
Susan flinched.
— Sorry if that’s too personal… – he added quickly. — It’s just… I’m divorced too. For three years now. I know what it’s like.
— Almost a year, – Susan replied. — And it was… not easy.
— I get it, – he nodded. — My ex-wife also… let’s just say, she had a strong personality. But you know what I’ve learned? Sometimes, a divorce isn’t an ending, but a beginning. A chance to start over, without the old mistakes.
His words resonated with her.
— Yes, – she agreed. — I think you’re right.
They sat in the coffee shop for almost two hours. When they were saying goodbye, David said:
— Susan, I really enjoyed meeting you. I’d love to see you again. Not at work, but just to get together. For dinner or a movie.
Susan smiled.
— I’ll think about it.
— Okay, – he smiled back. — I’ll be waiting.
All the way home, Susan thought about their meeting. She didn’t know if this acquaintance would turn into something serious, but she was grateful to David for the evening. He reminded her that there were other men in the world, men who weren’t like Mike. Reliable, mature, self-sufficient men. And maybe, just maybe, she was ready to start over.
Susan didn’t wait long. The very next day, she approached David in the office cafeteria and said:
— I’d love to have dinner.
His face lit up.
— Great! How about tonight at seven? I know a wonderful Italian restaurant.
Their first date was perfect. They talked nonstop, laughed, and discovered more and more common interests. David was not only smart and charming but also very attentive. He seemed to anticipate her wishes, guess her questions, and offer subtle, appropriate compliments. Susan felt at ease with him, as if they had known each other for a hundred years.
Their relationship developed quickly but harmoniously. They saw each other almost every day after work, and on weekends they drove out to the countryside, walked in parks, and went to the theater. David introduced her to his Labrador, Zeus—a huge, good-natured dog who immediately accepted Susan as one of his own.
Two months later, David suggested they go on vacation together.
— I’ve always wanted to visit Vermont in the fall, – he said. — They say the scenery is incredible. Will you come with me?..
Comments are closed.