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“I think we can safely say that the board is considering it very seriously. Well done.”
I ducked my head a little at the praise. I was proud of my presentation on global microloans, and I knew it would be a solid addition to the firm’s philanthropic portfolio. In addition to my own passion for the cause was the fact that a successful pitch to the board of directors would help when I was considered for partner. I’d put in a lot of late hours on that proposal, and I was glad it had gone well.
Porter was the third member who had sought me out to thank me and congratulate me on it. That kind of recognition felt good, but it would feel better to make partner. I’d been working toward that goal for over a year.
It was the driving force that kept me going the last few years even if it derailed a few relationships along the way when a woman didn’t like coming in second to my work. When I was ready to settle down, I would make the time. Until then, I had goals to smash.
I was on a call when my secretary came in with a muffin basket that had been delivered. I was starving and they looked suspiciously like the lemon poppyseed muffins that Madison baked. I finished with the call and asked what the delivery person had looked like.
“It was a girl, twenties, brown hair, cute,” she said.
“I’ll be back in a few minutes,” I said and took off down the hall to find her.
Madison was waiting for the elevators when I caught up to her. She smiled. “Hey, I just wanted to drop off some muffins.”
“Thanks,” I said, “I wish you had stopped to say hi.”
“I figured you were busy,” she shrugged.
“I was. But I’d make time to say hi. How are things going?”
“They’re good. I’ve cut back on hours for the time being until the new oven is in. Leo found me a good deal. You did me a huge favor when you called him in.”
“I’m glad he could help you,” I said.
“How was your presentation?”
“The one today was good. I’m trying to get the firm’s foundation to start issuing microloans globally.”
“That sounds interesting. What kind of microloans? I mean I know about the ones for people to buy like goats and stuff to earn a livelihood or supplies to make crafts to sell…”
“Ideally all those things. Just microloans to fund the startup supplies or livestock that someone needs to begin a self-sustaining business. Then they pay it back into the fund and the amount goes to another applicant in need. The idea is that grassroots efforts are better at getting what is needed into the hands of the people who can use it. It’s very impactful.”
“I’d love to hear more about it, but I know you’re busy.”
“What if I take you to lunch?”
“That sounds great. What time?”
“Noon?” I asked. She nodded. “Madison,” I said. “Thanks for dropping by and for the muffins. I’m going to go have one now. I’ll try not to ruin my lunch.”
“I won't tell,” she said with a smile.
I was excited to have lunch with her, but my conference call ran long. I had to have my secretary message Madison to say I was going to be late. By the time I wrapped up the call, it was after one. I was about to call and apologize when my secretary buzzed me, “Someone here to see you,” she said. When the door opened, Madison had a bag of takeout in her hand.
“You’re a lifesaver,” I said.
“I figured you’d be hungry and also frustrated that you had to change your plans.”
“Exactly,” I said, opening the bag and setting out the food. “I’m sorry it’s not a proper lunch like I offered you, but I’m glad you’re here.”
“Well,” she said, “A man as busy as you need sustenance if he’s going to save the world one microloan at a time.”
We talked about my job and new recipes she was excited to try in her new oven when it came in. I couldn’t help thinking just as I had that first day that Madison was exactly what I needed.
“I want to kiss you,” I blurted out.
“What?” She said, blushing a little.
