The fresh morning air was revitalizing and just what she needed. Her mouth practically watered as she approached her favorite tea shop. Grabbing a tea and bagel, she sat down next to the window to feel the warm sun. Just the smell of the tea soothed her. She searched employment listings on her phone, scanning through the potential opportunities. She would be graduating soon and would have extra time she could apply to another job until she found something more permanent. The restaurant provided a good paycheck, not to mention the tips, but she was tired of living month to month and wanted to put some savings away. She didn’t want to be in the position where she would have to ask her mother for help. So far she had been lucky, but a safety net wouldn’t hurt.
A text message notification popped up on her phone.
Unknown: Did you have fun last night?
Sophie was confused by the message until she figured Megan probably gave Jack her number. She assumed it must be him, but she wanted to make sure.
Sophie: Jack?
Within a few minutes she had a response.
Jack: Yeah. Anything exciting happen after I left?
Sophie: No. Didn’t stay very long after that. How is Megan?
Jack: Hungover but she’ll survive. You got home safe I take it?
Sophie: Yep. I survived.
Jack: Did Ashton take you home?
Sophie’s cheeks immediately heated at the mention of Ashton.
Sophie: Yes.
Jack: Hopefully he behaved himself.
She wondered if Ashton mentioned anything to Jack about what had happened between them. Her fingers nervously hovered over her phone; she was at a loss as to how to respond. She realized that she had to be straightforward with Jack. She wasn’t looking for a relationship and she needed to let him know.
Sophie: I had a wonderful time last night. I think you are great but I am not looking to get involved with anyone right now. I just wanted to let you know.
A few minutes went by and no response. Sophie nervously sipped her tea. She knew it was the right thing to do because she didn’t want to lead him on. Then her phone beeped, drawing her attention.
Jack: I have a confession. My family doesn’t know this but I actually play for the other team. I thought we hit it off last night and I think we could be great friends. Is that okay? PS: please don’t tell Megan. I obviously haven’t enlightened her yet.
Sophie was surprised with his confession and relieved at the same time. The thought did not even cross her mind last night he was gay. His demeanor and the times she caught him looking at her chest did not support his claim, though she was far from an expert on reading people.
Sophie: I think we can be great friends. PS: my lips are sealed.
Jack: Good. BTW Ashton is hot! I know you noticed.
Sophie: Yeah but EVIL!
Jack: He can’t be that bad.
Sophie: Sure is. I have lots of stories that will let you know just how much. But right now I am scanning the employment ads to add job #2 to my schedule.
Jack: Looking forward to it. If you need a job I know of an assistant job that just came available. It’s not too far from your restaurant. Flexible hours. Great pay.
Sophie: I’m intrigued!
Jack: Let me get back to you with the details.
Sophie: Thank you!
Sophie had enjoyed Jack’s company and thought a friendship between them would be a good thing. She didn’t really have anyone to chat with on a regular basis. Mel was her closest friend and her schedule was all over the place, with her disappearing for days at a time.
About twenty minutes later, when Sophie was finishing up, her phone beeped with a message from Jack. It had the contact information and a few more details in regards to the job. Sophie decided to go for it. She dialed the number immediately.
“Hello?” a woman’s voice answered after a few rings.
“Hello, my name is Sophie Rogers. I am calling for Mrs. Darcy in regards to an employment opportunity.”
“Yes, wonderful, this is she. You have such a lovely voice, dear. We should set up a meeting to discuss the position. When are you available?”
“I’m available today until 3:00, or tomorrow evening,” Sophie suggested.
“How about 11:00 this morning?”
Sophie looked at the time; it was 9:25. “Sure, I can make that work. Should I come to you?”
“Yes, dear. That would be lovely. The address is 43 Simons Street.”
“I know the street. Thank you, Mrs. Darcy.” Sophie ended the call feeling excited about the new employment opportunity. She needed to head home for a quick change before she caught the bus to her interview.
When she approached her apartment door she noticed her bucket sitting against it. She looked in and was relieved to see that the mice were gone. She grabbed the bucket and headed straight for her closet. After a quick assessment of her wardrobe, she selected a black and white floral print skirt with a simple blouse in a muted pastel green. She completed the look with modest black heels. Looking in the mirror, she decided to leave her hair down so she didn’t look too formal. She added some blush to her cheeks and a clear gloss to her lips before heading out the door.
Sophie grabbed her phone and dialed her mother’s number. When the answer machine picked up, she left her a quick message. Before she tucked her phone in her bag she sent a text to Jack.
Sophie: Heading off to a job interview with Mrs. Darcy. Wish me luck.