Love 101

Chapter 7

Getting to know you

Nicholas was surprised to see Juliette in the restaurant. He decided to get a light lunch and did not expect to see her there. It was hard enough for him to get her off his mind. He found it torture having her refuse his advances. He waved and ignored the urge to intrude. Cassandra beamed as she watched it all unfold. "He is a handsome man," she indicated. "If you look at the exterior but, I need to know more about the inner man," Juliette said watching him closely. "Well, there is no time like the present. He looks so lonely sitting over there alone," Cassandra said, watching Nicholas eat his lunch.

Juliette flinched as she knew what her friend was about to do. "Cassandra, don't call him over here," Juliette commanded. Cassandra ignored her friend with a wide grin across her face. "This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about him," Cassandra smiled. Juliette pulled at her friend to change her mind. However, Cassandra was adamant about making this happen. Before Juliette could do anything, Cassandra motioned with her hands and invited Nicholas over to their table.

Nicholas was surprised at the invitation and did not hesitate to go over. "Ladies," he smiled before he sat down. "Thanks for the invite," he stated. "You are welcome," Cassandra said. Juliette forced a smile and was angry at Cassandra for putting her in this awkward position. Nicholas tried to make eye contact with Juliette who looked everywhere but at him. Juliette concentrated on the food on her plate wondering if to speak or not. "I hope you enjoy working at the company," Cassandra said.

"I plan to," Nicholas said. "How long have you worked as an accountant?" Cassandra asked trying to get some information for Juliette. Nicolas watched as Juliette continued to pretend that she was preoccupied with something else. "Well, the last ten years to be exact. I graduated with my master's degree and worked with Spellman's Advertisement Firm for six years, and did consultancy for five years before joining the company," Nicholas shared. "Wow, impressive," Cassandra said. "I am happy I joined the company," he continued as they all ate their lunch. Cassandra hoped that Juliette would engage in the conversation but she did not whisper a word. "So, is there anyone special to share these accomplishments with?" Cassandra asked innocently.

Nicholas smiled realizing Cassandra was fishing for information for her girl. "There is no one special. I am hoping to change that very soon," he added. Juliette looked up briefly and saw his eyes nestled in on hers as if to indicate that she was the one he was waiting for. She could not wait for this conversation to come to an end. Cassandra continued to question Nicholas discovering he had two older brothers; his father was deceased and he was close with his mother who lived in New York. Furthermore, she discovered two years ago, he had walked away from a five-year relationship because his current girlfriend was not ready to settle down. Juliette was quite surprised he shared so much freely.

"I guess we should be returning to work. I am just going to take a quick bathroom break," Cassandra said excusing herself from the table. When Cassandra was gone, Nicholas focused on Juliette once again. "All of that was for you," he said hoping to get a reaction from her.

"It was not necessary," she informed him. "Juliette, go out with me," Nicholas said. "Nicholas, I am sure you are a nice guy but I don't date co-workers," Juliette said. "Originally, when we met, we were not co-workers," Nicolas reminded her. "The dynamics have changed. We are presently coworkers. I am not looking for a relationship," Juliette stated. "I respect your decision but hope to be a part of your life in some way," he said softly. For a brief moment, they both stared at each other without words. Nicholas knew that he had waited years for someone like Juliette, so he was not ready to give up at all.