Epilogue
I didn't flounder in the unemployment line for long. It only took a couple of emails from head-hunters before I landed an interview at a local social media marketing firm. The company I work for is female-owned and operated, and a far cry from the old boys’ club I'm used to.
After a short probation period, I’ll pursue my own leads, but for now I’m shadowing Alice, who’s a few years older than me. We’ve already talked extensively about my future with the company.
Alex and I decided not to label anything, but promised to keep in touch. It's been a little difficult with our schedules, but we've made it work, spending the odd night and weekend video chatting.
It feels like we started something special.
“Alright, what do I need to know about this meeting?” I straighten my button-down as I follow Alice along the sidewalk to the small cafe where we’re having our lunch meeting with a potential client.
“Nothing. They came to us as a warm lead. We’re here to close and start the final paperwork. Funny enough, they asked for you by name,” Alice says, looking over her shoulder.
“For me?”
I nearly trip on my own feet the moment I notice Alex sitting at one of the tables, looking like a goddess with Chris by her side.
We manage to keep things professional during the meeting. Chris is planning on opening an online store so she can ship baked goods and specialty cakes across the country.
“Well, we’ll get this paperwork finalized and will let you know the next steps. Thank you for making the trip. It’s been a pleasure meeting you both,” Alice says, shaking Chris’s hand.
The two slowly gravitate toward the front of the cafe while Alex stays back, walking beside me in cautious silence.
“I hope you’re not too mad at me,” she says finally.
“I’m not mad. I would’ve liked a little of a heads-up, but I’m not mad,” I mutter under my breath.
“You just said you weren’t mad twice.”
“What are you doing here? And don’t tell me you’re here supporting Chris. She could’ve signed with a dozen other marketing firms not located in New York.” I glance to make sure my colleague has disappeared down the sidewalk.
“Fine, it was my idea, but the meeting is real.” Alex takes my hands in hers. “Kitty, I know we were going to keep things casual, but that’s not really my thing. Whatever this is, feels. . .”
“Special.” My heart beats so hard I can almost feel it rattling my necklace. “But long distance? Does it ever work?” Can it work?
She lifts my palm to her mouth. “I’ve got time and I don’t mind flying. We’re both highly intelligent, attractive, and ambitious women. I think we could figure it out.”
I laugh, pulling my lower lip between my teeth. “Yeah?”
Alex tilts her head and leans closer. “Yeah.”
The kiss is a promise, a new beginning. Another chance for me to be adventurous, and I can’t help but be a little selfish for the first time and choose myself.