James
"Hey there, beautiful." I speak through the receiver of my phone.
"Hey there, yourself," Alexa responds sarcastically, yet hesitant.
"I was wondering if you’d be interested in coming out with me one day this week. For a real date," I ask, hoping for a yes.
Recalling the conversation between Mattheo and myself, I know that she doesn't know that we’re in a competition. Vying for her affection, for her heart.
She doesn't answer right away, and I wonder if she isn't going to see me at all.
"I-I'm not sure, James," she stammers.
I feel the heat rise to my face- not in anger, but in shame. I feel guilty for how I treated her at the gallery and for fighting over her in public.
"Alexa, I'm sorry for the night at the art gallery."
I hang my head and let my voice trail off for a few moments. This is so embarrassing, but I have to own that shit.
"I just want a fair chance to show you who I really am. That I'm not that guy."
I can hear her sigh on the other end.
"Can I get back with you by the close of business today with an answer? I just need to think about it."
"Sure," I reply as I end the call.
Way to go, asshole.
She'll probably call back and say no. I never should’ve done that to her. I wonder how angry she'd be at both of us for competing for her. Especially after that fight.
She isn't a piece of property that anyone owns. Alexa is special, and she deserves to be treated as such.
Getting involved in a business meeting, I let go of all thoughts involving Alexa for the time being. Once this meeting is over, I’m virtually finished for the remainder of the day. I decide to get a Coke and go for a walk in the park.
My ruminations quickly turn to Alexa, and I want to be able to have the chance to take her out. Worried that I’ve fucked it up miserably, I pace through the grass, under a willow tree. I've always thought these trees were beautiful and calming.
As the breeze blows through the wispy branches, they sway like a natural curtain. The rustle of leaves touching one another is very therapeutic.
It reminds me, in part, of the night that I met Alexa, and the way her hair moved as she danced.
My phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out and my heart stills… it’s her.
"Hello?"
"James?" Alexa asks.
Hoping my voice doesn't betray my feelings, I answer.
"Hi." I mock excitement.
"I’ve decided that I’ll give you another chance. I'll go out with you on a proper date like you asked."
I let out a pent-up sigh.
"All right then. Can we make a day of it, I mean instead of a dinner date, how about lunch?"
"Sure, sounds great."