Awakenings: The Greek, The Russian and Me

Chapter 14

I wake up midmorning feeling so tired but peaceful. I brew some coffee, make some toast, and just sit at my kitchen table staring into nothingness. Halfway through my breakfast, I continue to work on my assignments until noon, when I remember that I have a date with Erik. Well, not really a date, just a study date. I put everything back in my book bag and head to the bath- room to shower. I desperately push memories of Conn out of my head as I shower. Wrapped in a towel, I head to my bedroom and search for something to wear. I opt for some capri pants, a blouse with flower print, and some slip-on flats. I dress and then blow-dry my hair and spray some lavender body spray behind my ears and on my wrists. Lavender always makes me calm and focused. I look at my reflection in the mirror, and I decide that I need something to brighten me up, so I put on some mascara and lip gloss. That's better, I tell myself. I decide to leave the house early since I can no longer bear to be here.

I head toward Astoria to meet Erik at the library. I'm running early, so I detour to a local deli and pick up a cream cheese bagel with lox and an iced tea; then I head to the library. As I enter I spot Erik at the usual table, and a smile comes across my face. I walk toward him and take the empty seat next to him. He looks up and smiles. Then he looks at my deli bag and says, "How nice, you brought a snack."

I laugh and reply, "Not really, but I'll share. It's a bagel with cream cheese and lox."

He reaches out, and I hand him half a bagel, which he promptly takes a bite out of. "This came just in time. I'm starving," he says, taking another bite.

I settle down next to him and proceed to eat my half bagel. "I only have one iced tea; I haven't had any, but I'll share. You can drink first," I say, offering him the drink.

"You're too funny. I don't care who drinks first, but you are very thoughtful," he replies as he takes the last bite of the bagel.

We proceed to work for the most part in silence and randomly take small sips of tea. Erik has the ability to make me smile from within and forget all my insecurities. I find myself staring at him with a grin on my face. He turns and winks as he says, "What's up, Fran? You look like you're in a daze." He gently leans to the side and nudges me with his shoulder.

"I'm just really happy. We are almost done with this stupid assignment, and I know I couldn't have done this on my own. Thanks."

"Well, I will have to admit that I'm secretly thankful for this assignment, because I was paired up with you. It's been great spending time with you and getting to know you. I really like you. Maybe after we complete the assignment and present it, we could go on a date or something," he says calmly. I'm stunned and just gaze into his eyes, speechless, not knowing what to say. "As I said, Fran, I re- ally like you. It would be great to date and get to know each other a little better, but for now if you're not there yet, I'm patient, and I'll wait. I'll have your friendship. Wow, you look shocked, but I don't like to play games with people. I'd rather be up-front and honest about how I feel."

I'm speechless for a moment; then, putting my hand on his arm, I say, "I really like you too. I enjoy spending time with you, and you make me feel totally relaxed; I can be myself around you. But right now I'm sort of seeing someone; it's difficult to explain. Let's be friends. I re- ally like spending time with you, and I don't want to lose your friendship."

We continue to gaze at each other, and he breaks the silence. "Friends it is. Let's wrap this assignment up; a few more things, and we are done."

About an hour later, we finally complete the assignment. Relief washes over me, but at the same time, I don't know what to expect next. I really like Erik; he is very handsome, funny, and smart. Why didn't I meet him first? He actually wants to date me. I would know where I stand with him. He has a really nice family, and they also seem to like me.