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“I couldn't agree more.”
“And I'm sure repairing your relationship with your ex would be something worth investing in.”
I smiled warmly. “I'm hoping she's receptive to it. I mean, I don't want to tear her away from Gabe, but if they're not officially together, I could talk to her about it.”
“So, would you like me to put in a good word? I could do that tonight.”
“Not just yet. I think I should talk to her first. I wouldn't want to step into a different position after she's rejected me.”
He cackled. “Of course. Get your cards in order and get back to me. There's no rush considering the position won't be open until the end of the year.”
“Yeah, I just wouldn't want to retire from my international position if I can help it.”
“Would she ever want to travel with you?”
I shook my head. “No, she always had a fear of flying. I've seen her react to it, too. It's pretty awful.”
“That's understandable. Planes still make me sick. I just carry a lot of nausea medicine with me at all times.”
“That certainly helps.”
“Well, once you get that contract fixed up, you can bring it to my room and we can go out for dinner. What would you like?”
I chuckled lightly. “You're letting me choose this time?”
“It sounds like you've had a hard time lately. Why not choose as a treat?”
“I could get used to that.”
Mr. Herring raised his eyebrows. “Alright, don't let it get to your head, kid.”
I laughed. “How about hibachi? I'm craving it.”
“That's always been my favorite. Let's plan for that.”
I nodded in agreement and lifted my coffee to sip. It had gone slightly cold since we had sat for so long talking. But I was feeling good. I was feeling connected. Although my boss and I rarely discussed personal matters, it felt comforting to have his support. And even more, it felt wonderful to have him be flexible to my needs.
We spoke about random topics for a good while until we were both finished with our coffees. After we went our separate ways, I opted to take a walk outside. It was chilly outside, but it felt good and I walked aimlessly around the hotel gardens for a while before returning to my room. I felt refreshed when I laid out on my bed, wearing the silliest grin.
As I stared at the ceiling, I hoped hard that Clara would be receptive.
Now that I can work locally, she might accept me back, I thought blissfully.And we could be happy. We could really be happy again.
CHAPTER26
Clara
I walkedbetween a crowd of people with Gabe strolling next to me, clutching a bag to his back. We approached a sitting area with a loading gate just on the other side of it. Above it was the flight number and the destination letters right next to it: NYC.
He turned to me. “Well, this is it.”
“It sure is. You sure you're going to like the big city? It's so much faster than Checotah.”
“I think I can adjust quickly to it. You know how I am: I like things fast.”
I laughed. “Yeah, you do. Do you want me to wait with you until they start boarding?”
“Nah, you can head out now. I don't want to keep you.”