Page 3 of Things I Overshared

“You’re right. He doesn’t know me.”

“Yeah, so just stick to work, have your meetings, and then run off to explore the sights separately.”

“You mean explore Europealone?!”

“Oh, Sam, you’re never alone. On day two, you’ll be best friends with the concierge and the bartender and whoever else you lay eyes on.”

“Hmm,” I say, my Emerson Clark wheels still turning.

“And hey, since you’ve sworn off men after . . . everything, you’ll have a built-in non-date. A cold, wet buffer blanket between you and all of Europe’s eligible bachelors! It’s perfect!” she teases. “I’m walking into the studio now. I’ll talk to you later, okay?”

“Okay.”

We hang up, and I continue staring out my window, contemplating her words. I shake off a shiver that crept up when she mentioned “everything.” The fact is, Emerson and I just don’t know each other. Maybe he’s the introvert of all introverts, even more so than Skye, clenched shut, in need of someone patient enough to see him unfurl and show himself. In need of someone who will go the extra mile to become his friend.

If I can encourage him to get to know me, if I can win him over, we can be friends. Not a bestie like Nicole, not laugh-a-minute coworkers like Darrin and me, not confidants or anything crazy. Friends. And then we can get through this trip, maybe even enjoy it.

I create a new note on my iPhone.

Operation Thaw

Days Until Trip: 15

Temp: -1,000º

________________

FRIDAY 4:52P.M.

Sally: Congrats on the trip, Sam!

Susan: Yes, you deserve it!

Me: Thanks, boss.

Skye: You guys should’ve heard her freak out when I called. *priceless*

You are *THE WORST* Skye.

Sadie: So happy for you!

Skye: Just sorry you have to go with the Clarksicle.

Susan: LOL He’s not that bad.

I have a plan for that.

Sadie: Oh, do tell.

Sally: Who?

Skye: Emerson, our lifeless CFO.

Sally: Oh yeah! [Snowman emoji]

I’m going to become his friend!

Skye: Yikes. Good luck with that.