Page 86 of Once Bitten, Twice Fried
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The black car stopped in front of the perpetually bustling Saint-Pancras International station. Nicki had to manoeuvrer around a few rude taxi drivers but this was the closest she could get Zoe to the front doors.
“You really didn’t have to park this close. I could’ve just walked.”
“It’s part of my job.” Nicki said proudly.
“Thanks a lot. I’ll keep you updated on how it goes.” Zoe reached for the door handle.
“So you’re sure this is what you want to do?”
Zoe stopped and settled back in the car seat. “I think so. But I’m a bit scared.” She shivered. “Very scared actually.”
“What could be scary about pouring your heart and soul to your long-lost friend who’s mad at you and hoping they’ll reciprocate?” Nicki had clearly caught up on sleep and was back to her wisecracking.
“Oh god. Am I moving too fast? Maybe I’m moving too fast.” After ending things with Tom last night, Zoe had stayed up until the wee hours of the morning and decided that she had to tell Julie what she should’ve told her ten years ago. But she had to do it right; this wasn’t a matter she could just phone or text about. She had to tell Julie face-to-face that she wanted to be with her. That she always knew that.
“I don’t think ten years is really that fast.”
Zoe rolled her eyes. “You know what I mean.”
“Maybe it’s fast. Who cares, if that’s what you want.”
“I want it more than anything.” When she’d finally gone to sleep last night, Zoe had been scared that she would have changed her mind by the time she woke up. Instead, she’d woken up more certain than ever, and that feeling was getting stronger any minute. “OK. It’s time for me to go.” Zoe grabbed the door handle again.
“Um Zoe.” Nicki cleared her throat. “I know it might not be the ideal time, but there’s something I need to tell you.”
Zoe looked at her watch a little frantically.
“Oh don’t worry! I accounted for this when I decided when we should leave this morning. You’ll make your train in plenty of time, I promise.”
Zoe relaxed and turned back to her assistant. “What’s that?”
Nicki sighed. “I didn’t tell you earlier, but Alma proposed to me while we were in Switzerland. I said yes.”
“Really? Oh Nicki, I’m so happy for you!” Zoe gave her assistant a hug that was maybe just a little too strong. “Do you have a date?”
“We do but we still need to make arrangements so nothing is certain yet.”
“That’s so exciting!”
“Yes.” Nicki didn’t sound as excited.
“What’s wrong?” Zoe frowned.
“Zoe, I thought about what we talked about the other day. You know, about making decisions for yourself and all.” She stopped to look at Zoe. “I think I need a change of job. I want to spend more time with my fiancée.”
There we go. It was Zoe’s biggest nightmare, that she asked too much from Nicki and she would quit. She nodded, trying not to look too distressed.
Nicki continued. “I really do love being your assistant, but you made me realise that there are more important things in lifethan work. Unfortunately, being a personal assistant isn’t a good career choice for that.” Nicki pushed her glasses up her nose.
“It’s alright, Nicki. I’m glad that you’re realising what’s important to you before…” Zoe paused and flatly added: “Before you sleep with your best friend from college and your world is turned upside down.”
Nicki laughed.
“I’m not sure what I’m gonna do without you, Nicki.” Zoe sighed. “You are a diamond.”
“You’ll be more than fine without me.” Nicki squeezed her boss’ hand. “I’ll be happy to stay for a few months more so you can figure out a replacement - if needed.”
