The car stopped, the driver opened Sophia’s door, and she thanked him for the ride. “What about my luggage?” She wasn’t sure if she was supposed to take it into Derek’s office.
“Mrs. Burke, I believe I am to wait for you. We will leave it in the car until I hear otherwise.”
Sophia agreed, all the while questioning her own ability to make decisions. Why would the driver be waiting if she were leaving with Derek? Tentatively she entered the glass building.
The large impressive lobby glowed with natural light. The white walls, huge windows, plants, and fountains made her feel like she was still outside. Sophia made her way to the information desk.
Three women were behind the tall counter. Two wore blue blouses, Shedis-tics embroidered on the front. The other wore attire screaming executive; a black pencil skirt, white blouse, and tall black pumps. While the well-fitting clothes accentuated her feminine gender, they also confirmed she meant business.
Sophia approached a woman in blue. “Hello, perhaps you could help me? I’m looking for Derek Burke.”
Before the young lady could reply, the executive woman turned to Sophia. “Hello, you must be Mrs. Burke.”
It wasn’t a conscious decision for one woman to evaluate the other, but it happens all the time. Sophia took in her features. Immediately she noticed the woman’s petite frame, probably four or five inches shorter than herself, undoubtedly younger, with blonde hair, fixed into a low bun and a beautiful smile. The assessment took only a millisecond. Sophia extended her hand as she responded, “Yes, please call me Sophia.”
The young executive eagerly accepted and shook Sophia’s hand. Her strong voice was eager and energetic, “It’s nice to finally meet you. I’m Danielle, but please call me Danni. I’ll be glad to take you to Derek’s office. His web conference should be almost done.”
*****
Claire’s plan progressed smoother than she’d hoped. She hadn’t heard Tony’s voice since she answered his call, over three weeks earlier. As she dialed his number, she wondered what big meeting she may be interrupting. While married, after she had a cellphone, she was specifically instructed to only text during business hours. Actual calls were prohibited, except in the case of an emergency. After all, he’s a busy man. He didn’t want her interrupting some multimillion dollar deal. The memory of that instruction came rushing back as she listened to the rings on her end. Utilizing the telephone that he called, she knew her number and probably name, would appear when he checked the screen.
Surprisingly, he answered on the second ring. She heard a combination of amusement and surprise in his voice. “Hello, Claire. I hope you’re not calling to cancel our plans.”
Her heart momentarily forgot to beat. Damn, if he wouldn’t have used her name – but he did. Feigning strength, she pressed forward. “I wouldn’t do that, Tony.” She could use his name too. “That would be rude, to cancel something at the last minute.”
“I must admit, I’m surprised to receive your call... on my private cell.”
“I presume you are. I wanted to contact you about tonight.”
“Yes?”
“You see, I’ve been living in this area for a while. There’s a lovely French restaurant I believe you’ll enjoy.” She didn’t wait for him to respond, she continued, “I realize you made reservations, but so have I. I’d be glad to meet you at Bon Vivant on Bryant, at 7.”
“Well, there is a car coming to pick you up...”
She interrupted, “I appreciate that. It’s very kind of you; however, I have my own car and am more than willing to drive.” She heard his soft chuckle.
“If that is what you prefer.”
She exhaled, “I do.”
“Very well, I must return to this table of directors and web conference. Until tonight.”
“Yes, good-bye.”
Her next decision involved attire. The outfit he sent was exquisite. She tried it on and expectantly, everything fit perfectly. However, the day before their reunion, she returned it to Neiman Marcus, having the money returned to the purchasing credit card. Claire planned on presenting the receipt to Tony during their meal.