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I blush and tuck my bob behind my left ear. “I thought about you also.”
“I’m grateful. Would you like to know what was on my mind?”
“Only if you want to tell me.” I slouch in my seat, propping both feet on the coffee table, spreading my legs slightly. My core heats up, and I force myself to control my breathing. The conversation is just starting; I don’t want him to know he’s already turning me on with just the waves of his voice.
“One thing you will learn about me, is that I’m always upfront about what I want.”
“That’s a great way to be,” I say, running a hand over my thigh.
“It is. Are you open with your wants and desires?”
“Honestly, not all the time. I never really thought about why. I kinda do what’s necessary to get me to where I need to be.”
“That’s no fun, sweets. You can’t calculate every move you make. Well, you can, and you should make smart choices, but sometimes it’s best to live in the moment. To do the things that’ll bring you joy, fulfillment, happiness.”
“Is that what you do?”
“Yes, more so now than I did when I was launching my business. After a while, I realized that I can work my ass off, make all the money in the world, but none of it will matter if I don’t take time out to do what I want. And to be open with myself about what I want.”
“Manifestation.”
“Exactly.”
“Tell me about your work. How long have you been in business?”
“A long time. I am also a programmer of sorts. I started the company about ten years ago while in college. I developed a way for organizations to use software to edify and improve their bottom lines.”
“Something like a business coach?” I ask, curious if he’s referencing the new wave of coaching careers that have given many people the freedom to work from home.
“It’s a little more complex than that. In a way, it’s coaching, but what I do is more software and engagement focus.”
“Okay, that’s nice. Ten years is a long time. I take it you enjoy the work.”
“It’s good work that will keep you on your toes. Unfortunately, I’m not as hands-on as I once was. Most of my days consist of the more political side of the business. Each of my offices are managed by others; hell, my employees rarely see me to be honest.”
“Oh wow! I haven’t met the CEO of my company either. I guess that’s pretty common for that title.”
“It can be. Smaller corporations may not require much travel. But the larger the company grows, the more facetime the CEO will need to make to keep sponsors, donors, stakeholders et cetera informed and invested.”
“I couldn’t imagine that. Sounds like it can get kind of lonely.”
“Why do you say that?”
“Sorry if that was harsh. But based on what you’ve shared about your relationships or lack thereof, I’d imagine there’s no room for love.”
“It can be challenging for sure. But anything is possible with the right motivation.”
“I guess you’re right,” I say, lowering my head, trying not to showcase my disappointment.
“Is that a concern for you?” he asks sincerely.
I pause and take in a deep breath. “Should it be?”
He doesn’t respond right away, and I wonder what he’s thinking.
“I need to see you,” he pauses. “Allow me to take you out. I can fly in tomorrow. We can spend the day together, if you can spare the time away from work.”
My eyes fly open and the beating of my heart increases. Words are not my friend as I struggle to form a sentence. I can’t see him; I don’t even know him. Shit! But he’s been so fucking great. What do I say?
