The last survivor

As the sun set, I looked out of one of my company windows. I couldn't believe how well we were doing. When I thought of starting a computer company in an economy filled with them, I thought I had a 10% chance of just getting off my feet. Now not only am I off my feet, Mint incorporated is a multi-million dollar company. However, there is a downside of being a CEO. When others my age were getting married and making families, I was busy with my company.

Last year I finally decided to give love a chance when I met Mary. She was stunning, intelligent, and sweet. I couldn't help but fall in love with her. I try my best to spend quality time with her, but it is hard to do. Even though I know she is hurting, she refuses to show it.

I turned around from the window and walked back into my office. I still had work to do before going home to Mary. As I walked into my room, I was shocked to see Stanley waiting for me. His office was right next to mine. The only separation we have is a small secret room I use to rest. We also share someone special to me, my sister.

"James I have been waiting for you. Where have you been?" he asked as I sat in my seat.

"Just outside. Is there something important?"

"Yes, there is. I just got word that you are going to Japan next week."

"Yes, I am. Is there a problem with that?" I asked him wondering why he was surprised.

"Well, next week is the meeting with Intergo Tech. Who will head that meeting if you are gone?"

I looked up from my computer and smiled "Stanley who do you think will?"

"I don't know. Whoever you pick."

"Stanley there are only two large offices on this floor. One is mine and one is yours. There is a reason for that. If I am not around, you have to do my job. You don't have any plans for next week right?"

"Of course not. I am grateful for your kindness."

"It's been a year since you got here and you are still this humble. My sister chose well."

"She sure did." he said making me laugh.

"ok, you better get home to her before she starts harassing me."

"Yeah, I better. We are supposed to go on a date today."

"Well have a good night."

"Thanks. See you tomorrow," he said and walked out of my office.

It was 10:30 pm when I got home and Mary wasn't home. She was used to my late arrivals so she usually goes to parties or clubbing to keep busy after her work. She left me a note telling me she would be back at 2 am.

I went to the kitchen to find Tom my cook loading the dishwasher "Hi Tom."

"Hello, James. How are you?" he asked giving me a hug as he always does. It always reminded me of my father's hugs. The one thing I miss about living with my parents is their hugs.

"Tired and hungry," I said seating down at the kitchen island.

"Well Mary asked me to make your favorite; bacon cheeseburger and fries. You know you can just buy this on your way home."

"Yes, but they don't make it as big as your or as good."

"That is true." he looked at me and read me "is there something on your mind?"

he knew me well "Yes there is."

"if I may ask, what is it?"

"Well Mary and I have been dating for a while now, and I want to make her my wife," I said and looked at his face for his reaction. His facial reaction was not so good. He looked concerned. "What is it?"