“Sharon, I wasn't aware that Mr. Thompson was visiting today. How did that get past me?”
“I'm sorry, Ms. Brimm, we've been so busy around here. It must have been an oversight on my part,” Sharon admitted apologetically.
I wasn't totally convinced that it was her fault. She was right. We’d been swamped for weeks.
“Have these taken into the kitchen for everyone to share and you can start collecting lunch orders from the staff. It's on me again today. Okay?” I flashed a warm smile. I liked Sharon and belittling staff is a no-no in my book.
Purposely putting Mr. Thompson on hold for a minute, I was now prepared to address him, “Now, Mr. Thompson, how can we be of service to you...” I conspicuously peeked behind him, “...and your team today?”
That took the spark out of his cocky ass eyes.
“Mr. Smith recommended that I begin my file merging of the firm at the Long Beach branch,” Mr. Thompson informed more reserved—still with much confidence, but with less of a smug look on his face.
“I'm sorry, but why is it necessary for you to make visits?” I quizzed. The way he gazed into my eyes alarmed me. Was he attracted to me? Oh, no!
“Well, my firm’s practice is to have all of our clients’ records on file. Initially we make copies of all of your files here. Then we add a program to your software that will automatically merge new and updated files from here on out.”
“Well, fine.” I tried to maintain my dignified persona, though his presence further annoyed me by the minute. “Sharon, please grant the Thompson firm whatever access they need.” I turned to address her directly, I didn’t like staring into his face for too long. “Also, out of hospitality, make sure they know where the restroom and break rooms are.”
“Yes, Ms. Brimm. Natalie should be here any moment to escort them back.” Just as she ended her sentence Natalie, a studying therapist, who had been interning with us appeared, introduced herself and led the gentlemen back towards the offices.
I turned to Sharon who was eager to speak. Her eyes were stories high and miles apart. “Ms. Brimm, I am really sorry. I should have gone over your schedule with you last evening before closing.” I put my hands in the air asking her to halt.
“I meant what I said.” I sighed. “It was an oversight on both our parts. Things have been really busy around here. You're extremely efficient at keeping me on task. No harm. No foul. Are we almost caught up with our backed logged appointments?” I asked.
“I do believe yesterday was the last long day. Things should most definitely be at a slower rate starting Monday.” As she spoke, Sharon clicked and navigated the mouse of her desktop glancing over the upcoming schedule I presumed.
I gave a dramatic exhale. It must have lowered her guards.
“I see you have an admirer in that gentleman,” Sharon whispered with batted eyelashes. She knew she was toting the line, but I didn't mind. Again, I really liked Sharon.
“Who? That guy? Pssssssst!” I scoffed. “He'd just better stay in his lane. He was very bold seeing it was our first professional encounter,” I hissed.
“Yes, he was a bit crass. But I don't think he'll be as well-acquainted in the near future,” Sharon joked referring to my cold shoulder to him. It was well intended.
“Speaking of admirers, I'll have to tell mine...” I said while raising the small note card that accompanied the bouquet. “...that he needs to practice a little more discretion at my workplace,” I let out a long exhale.