I went in through the lobby, noting that there wasn’t a central security guard. I got right on the elevator and went up to the third floor. As soon as I exited the car, I was faced with a secretary in a bright yellow blouse. She had dark brown hair and a winning smile. I noticed a ring on her finger and thought it was probably just as well. I didn’t need to get involved with anyone just then. I was still raw over the breakup and needed time to let my heart mend.
“Gavin!” Cory came down the hall, his arms open wide.
“Cory!” I replied, pulling him into a hug.
“It’s been so long; this city must seem tame to you.”
“Never,” I said with a grin. “It’s good to be home.”
“Come on,” Cory said, drawing me down the hall to my new office. “Here’s your room. What do you think?”
I stepped through the door, beholding something that I’d never thought I would see in all my life. It wasn’t large, and it wasn’t decorated with exotic trophies. There was a single desk, an institutional-looking couch, and two rolling chairs. That was it. And there was just enough space between all those items to move freely. But it was all mine.
I never had an office before. As a photographer, I’d worked out of hotel rooms and the back seat of whatever car I rented. As a college student, I’d shared a dorm room with a buddy of mine from the team. As a kid, I didn’t have any need for an office. I was thirty years old, and for the first time in my life, I had a real job.
“Try one,” Cory said, pushing me inside.
I noticed a box of pastries on my desk. Walking over, I selected a jelly-filled one, grabbing a napkin so I didn’t make a mess of myself. It was good, really good. I munched as I walked over to the single window. Looking out, I could see the street below and a couple of the buildings facing us. It wasn’t a king’s view by any means, but at least there was some sunlight in the room.
“They’re good, right?” Cory said. It seemed like he was weirdly focused on the donuts.
“They’re good,” I agreed.
“You should see this woman working behind the counter,” he continued.
“Ah.” I got it. Of course there was a woman involved. I was sure she was stunning, but equally sure I wouldn’t be interested.
I doubted there was a woman alive who could take my mind off my recent separation. Anyway, it didn’t matter. Cory had his sights set on the bakery girl, so it would be best if I stayed out of it.
“They’re good pastries,” I elaborated. “You’ll have to go back and get more.”
“I think I will,” he agreed.
“Welcome to America.” I toasted my friend with the remains of my Danish.
“I’ve been in America,” he corrected me. “You’re the one who needs a hero’s welcome.”
“Drinks tonight?” I asked.
“For sure,” he agreed. “Let’s get this work shit finished up so we can clock out.”