Learn To Love Again

Chapter 7

"...And that's how I came to be so successful," Malcolm finished; at least I hoped he was finished.

"That's great," I said. To be honest, though, I had zoned out through most of the conversation. I had no idea it was possible for one person to talk so much about himself.

I had given up trying to put in any words of my own as soon as I'd realized that the conversation was going to be one-sided, which was hours ago.

"Did I tell you about how hard I worked to get that promotion?" He asked presently.

I mentally rolled my eyes. "Only a billion times," I muttered under my breath.

"What was that?"

I smiled. "Nothing. Yes you may have mentioned it. It's very ambitious of you."

I didn't want to be rude but I really needed to leave. I couldn't stand a second more of this conversation.

"I know, right?"

I smiled, genuinely. It was stupid of me to have expected a 'thank you'.

"Many other people wanted it but the boss would've been stupid not to give it to me. I was obviously the most qualified."

That's it! I'm all out of polite.

"I should go," I said, looking at my watch. "It's getting late."

He looked at his watch also. "You're right," he said. "I had no idea it was that late. I have to get to the office to get some things done."

"Right now?" I asked. "It's almost one in the morning."

Not that I really cared. I was just being polite.

He gave a cocky grin. "You know me," he said. "I'm all work, work, work."

He began to get up but sat again. "How are you going to get home?" He asked me.

I was taken aback by his question. "I assumed you were going to drop me off at my house," I said.

"The office is the other way," he whined. "Isn't there someone you could call?"

I almost gasped. "It's almost 1am," I said with a shocked expression. "Don't tell me you're planning to leave me here."

"It's still very crowded here," he said, looking around. "You'll be fine."

I didn't answer. I was too shocked.

He signaled a waiter over for the cheque, paid it, then rose.

"So when can we do this again?" He asked.

I couldn't help myself. I bursted into laughter.

Again? Whatever makes him think I would do this again?

I saw his confused, insulted expression and pulled myself together.

"What's so funny?" He asked.

"Sorry, I just remembered something," I lied. "What were you saying?"

"I was asking when we could--"

"I'm sorry, but I don't think I'll be doing this again." I rose also. "I'll let you know if I change my mind." Which I most definitely won't.

I started toward the door.

"So tomorrow evening then? Same time?" I heard him say confidently behind me, as if I hadn't even said anything.