"It's a holiday," I say, forcing on a cheerful display of bravado while my insides twist. "You've got an incredible opportunity at your feet. We'll talk about New York when it happens, okay? In the meantime, let's get some food."
"Okay," she says and offers a small smile. "I'm surprised you aren't carrying around pies today."
"I've had my fill." I pat my rock hard abs.
We make our way back to the dining area. I'm almost grateful when a staff member intercepts me. She's near tears and squeaks out he emergency: the chocolate chip cookies have nearly been depleted.
I apologize to Brianna with a smile. She moves on, and I become the cookie hero of the day by calling my father's assistant, Zach, and tasking him to find more cookies immediately. Promising the tearful staff member she'll have cookies within the hour, I try not to laugh at the civilian crisis as I walk away.
I don't try to find Brianna again. I'm happier than I should be for her to be headed to New York. She doesn't try to find me, either. I'm not surprised when I receive a text from her about an hour later.
Sorry, Petr, but I can't do this. Either we're together or we're not. I'm going to assume not, at least for now. I don't want to go to New York with the expectation you're coming with me (assuming I get the job) when I know it's not true.
I retreat to the relative solitude of the restroom to read her note again and consider the best way to respond. In the end, simple wins out.
Sorry to hear that, but I understand. You'll do awesome. Good luck on the interview. I tap send and lower the phone.
I thought I'd be relieved about what seems like a break up. I kind of don't, though. If anything, I feel more like a failure, someone who couldn't patch things up with the woman I'd been with off and on for several years. If someone I grew up with and dated can't get over my leg, who can?
Aware I need my head straight to deal with any more crises, I tuck the phone away and leave my moment of peace to tackle the crowds outside.
I spot Claudia this time when I wander through the people. The sight of her makes my stomach feel like the down side of a roller coaster and my body fevered. I can't look away once I see her and make my way towards her.
She's adorable this afternoon, wearing black leggings and a long sweater-tunic that reaches mid thigh. Her straight hair is loose around her shoulders and shimmers like blonde silk while her subdued makeup is nonetheless charming. When not in her waitress uniform, she's even more beautiful with her delicate, elfin features and large eyes.