The Heart of Politics

Dinner Meetings

Ya'll are gonna hate me for this, but hopefully the next chapter makes up for it. Sorry. Happy Readings.

Friday came along a lot faster than Jesse had wished. And the only breaks from his afflicted mind was the lunches, and kisses he'd shared with Rob. They were his saving grace. They were just like the sun breaking out for a couple seconds on a cloudy day. It reminded you that the sun did in fact still exist, and it would be there soon again. 

While he made his way through the hotel lobby, Jesse thought; all I have to do was make it through this dinner with the Prime Minister. Mark Rutte, was his name, and he was the leader of the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy. They were quite popular because they held center-left ideas. Just enough change to not scare people, while also leaving space for the rights of people that were up to date in the 21st century. And while having the Prime Minister backing him would be incredibly helpful, getting him on his side wouldn't be easy. But Jesse was determined to do what was necessary for this bill to pass. 

While he walked into the warm, and sophisticated restaurant, he felt the pressures weighing on him. Nonetheless, as we made his way toward Mark Rutte, he could feel his confidence growing. For if Jesse was good at anything it was being able to fight for people's rights. It was securing an airtight deal, and convincing the minds of others. 

"Goedenavond* Mr. Prime Minister" (Good evening*)  

"Goedenavond* Jesse Klaver." the man with small rectangular glasses said. 

"I'm really grateful you took time out of your day to sit with me." 

"Ahaha, well you are paying for dinner, and I just couldn't refuse the offer." The prime minister's face pulled into a smile. 

"Well, I hope I exceed your expectations."  Jesse laughed. 

"Oh right. I forgot to mention, I do have a colleague joining us soon, is that alright?" 

"Oh of course it is." Jesse lied. No. This is bad. What if this person can deeply influence the prime minister? This will get in the way of his airtight plan. Calm down Jesse Klaver, you are capable. Rob thinks you're capable. So if you need to believe in anything just believe in that. 

As they both took seat opposite of each other, they began to order, and only then did Jesse's surroundings come to the forefront of his mind. Had this not been a business meeting, he thought it would be the perfect place to take Rob on a date. The chairs were a beige fabric, with dark mahogany outlinings. The tables were set in white cloth, and at the center of each one was a lotus candle burning at the center. The lights were nicely dimmed, great for hiding the fact that you're rubbing your boyfriend's thigh. The music was nice, nothing loud, just enough that if the conversation went dry you wouldn't be left in uncomfortable silence. Dammit, I really want to bring Rob here. 

"Excuse me what would you like to order?" a voice brought him back to reality. 

When Jesse turned to the waiter, his mouth dropped. 

"...Devin?" 

"Ah, Mr. Klaver, being a barista doesn't cover the bills of a university student." 

"So...you work here part time as well?"

"Here, the cafe, and a bowling alley." Devin said tapping his digital pen against his leg. 

"Uh. Well this is Mark Rutte." Jesse said gesturing to the man seated in front of them. 

"As in the Prime Minister?" 

"Yes, young man. It's lovely to meet you." 

"I–I voted for you."