The Rebound Game

Twenty One

The next morning, Shirley calls to let me know that she just arrived from her trip. Their firm was having team building activities and her department decided on a resort in Entebbe. It did not amuse her that she was travelling to Uganda for a week but I insisted that she needed the break.

 Her only excuse was that she was not thrilled with the idea of traveling to a destination chosen by the boss's mistress, Amelia. From what I gather, Amelia is a bitch who still snitches on her colleagues in order to be on the good graces with her boss and every other departmental head. She specifically insisted that they fly to Entebbe when it was supposed to be a vote by everyone concerned.

  I do not buy the excuse myself.
    
We are practically sisters so I know Shirley more than she knows herself. She wouldn't admit that she hated the idea of spending a week outside work with Jack, a guy who recently started noticing her.
       
He has been asking her out for the past three weeks. Shirley however would give him all sorts of excuses. She used to have a serious crush on him a while ago but being bad boy, used to ladies hitting on him, he did not take her seriously. I am sure my best friend has lingering feelings for him and is afraid of acting on them.
       
She is right to have second thoughts though, it's common knowledge that office romances never last. Not to mention they place your career at stake.  I quickly brush my teeth and change my jacket. Shirley doesn't like it very much when I smoke. I head up towards her block occasionally stopping to reply Christian's texts.
         
He says that he flies here in early November. It's mid August so that gives me ample time to dump him.
        
I suppose you would bring with you the gifts you once promised then, right?
       
 I can't help but take note of the fact that flirting comes effortlessly with strangers. You don't get super nervous about that risky text you sent five minutes ago.

 The other person simply replies with whatever comeback that comes to mind. Hmm,the perks of online dating.  People should do this more often.

  You mean the lingerie and dresses that you refused to accept?

   I think I am ready to accept gifts.
   
  Ha-ha, yes. Although, how would you know my taste and size? That's what I was worried about.

  I could show your picture to the sales lady?

What if she recommends the wrong size because she can't believe how lucky I am?
     
I don't hesitate to type my details after he suggests that I visit the mall myself. I can count on Shirley to be in a mood for a shopping spree after my trip to Western Union tomorrow.
     
I am smiling like a Cheshire cat as I push the gate open. I make eye contact with a guy unbuckling his seatbelt in his Subaru. He pauses to give me a weird look. He must be wondering if I am high or something.
     
I ignore him and head to Shirley's door.