Strange Attraction (editing/rewriting)

V

As the weeks pass, I stay later at the office, finding that the quiet of an empty workplace mirrors the solitude of working from home—a privilege David still won't grant me. One evening, as the daylight lingers, my phone buzzes. It's Vanessa calling.

"Hey Mrs. Duvex," I answer promptly.

"Oh, no need for formalities—it's Vanessa."

"Okay, Vanessa. How can I help you?"

"Could you join us for lunch? We want to discuss some changes and show you the site for our new home."

Realizing I've never seen the actual building site, I agree and quickly gather my things to head to the Duvexes' home.

An hour later, I arrive at their large house and ring the doorbell. Vanessa greets me and we move to the dining room, which is just as expansive as the living room, dominated by a long wooden table. I take my seat across from her and her husband, who, as usual, remains silent, engrossed in a book titled "Lolita."

We discuss necessary alterations: a room for grandchildren, a study for her husband, a sunroom for her book club, and a guest house in the backyard. Lunch consists of simple chowder and crackers. Afterward, we drive to the building site, which is surprisingly large for a "downsized" home.

"Well, this sure is something," I remark.

"Isn't it? We can't wait to see what you and your team come up with," Vanessa replies.

Back at the office, I gather my team to finalize our ideas, then update Vanessa via text, receiving a thumbs-up in return. I brief David, confirming we're ready to start building.

Being the last in the office, I pack up and head for the elevator. Lucian isn't there this time, and I ride down alone, spotting him getting into his Audi as I reach the car park.

"Bye!" I call out.

He turns, smiles, and waves. "See ya."

I drive home, make a quick sandwich, watch a random show, then shower. I shave, wash my greasy hair, and, after struggling to breathe in the heat, turn off the water and grab my towel. I moisturize my skin, dress in shorts and a tank top, and finish my nightly routine before heading to bed.

The next day, I choose a grey plaid pencil skirt, a thick brown sweater, and Mary Janes. The day is as uneventful as the previous ones. As it gets dark, a knock on my door reminds me of my date with Finn. He enters holding a bouquet of peonies.

"Shall we?" he asks.

I quickly slide my things into my desk drawer, grab my purse, and leave with him. Waiting for the elevator, I admire his sunken beady pistachio eyes, thick coffee-colored hair, athletic build, and abstract tattoos. The elevator arrives, and inside is Lucian.

"Hi Olivia," Lucian greets, then extends a hand to Finn. "Lucian."

"Finn," they shake hands. Finn and I step into the elevator, with Finn in the middle.

"Going somewhere special?" Lucian asks, noticing the flowers.

"Just to Pierre's down the street," Finn replies.

"Oh, their food is... unbelievable," Lucian comments as they discuss food and business.

We reach the lobby, and Lucian exits first. "Bye Finn, Olivia," he says, walking backwards before turning away. Finn and I get into his car and drive to the restaurant, where we're overdressed for the lively atmosphere. We are seated at a small table with a candle in the middle.

As we enter the restaurant, the lively atmosphere is immediately apparent. A waiter leads us to a cozy table along the wall, adorned with a small tablecloth and a candle in the center. Finn pulls out my chair for me, and once I'm seated, he takes his place across from me. We quickly peruse the menu and order our appetizers.