Page 36 of Give Me a Chance
“It was just my sister, my mom, and me. My dad left when I was three years old, I don’t really remember him much.”
“What a shitty thing to do.” It’s an understatement, but at least it makes him laugh.
“It is. But he did teach me something. He taught me how not to be.” And I believe him. He’s the guy who sticks around.
Finishing the beer in his hands, he reaches in front of me to recycle it, as I’m drying my hands. The move surprises me, so Ilook up, and his face is an inch from mine. His scent is in my nose, his eyes staring into my soul, before he closes the cabinet door and reaches back.
For a second, I was sure he was going to kiss me.
For a second, there was nothing I wanted more.
“I better get going,” I say, suddenly desperate to get out.
“Sure, I’ll walk you out.”
“No need. I had a good time today, thanks for the burgers!” I rush to the front door and make a dash to my car.
I’m not used to this. Sex and friendship don’t mix, and this is why. It’s the source of ambiguous looks and confusing expectations.
I fall asleep mad at him for not kissing me.
Mad at myself for wanting it.
And mad at his fucking scent for not leaving my nose.
18
MATT
“As most of you know,” Kiara’s gaze lands on me, “and some will soon learn, with our annual gala planning, things will be different around here. There is a lot we need to do, but I have full confidence in our ability to make this gala even better than the last.” She continues the Monday meeting by delegating the tasks needed to be done before the gala.
Anne used to tell me it’s the busiest time of the year for them, and I see it. I’m aware a non-profit doesn’t have unlimited funds, and Kiara would rather spend the funds they have on the kids than on an event coordinator, but I’m not much of a party planner.
“Matt, you’ll be assisting with the budget planning and also venue and décor.” Kiara reads from her list, and I nod in understanding. Of course, the one in charge of the venue and décor is Natalie, so once again, we’ll be working together.
We’re finally in a good place, friendly enough to be comfortable around each other. But spending time close to her and having to pretend I don’t want to touch her every second of every day is hard.
Anne and I walk into the budget meeting right after lunch. Danielle, the BYC’s accountant, leads the meeting.
“I know it may not seem like the most interesting part of planning, but without a good budget, nothing else would be possible.” Her lips turn up into a bright white smile. Her buzz cut hair is dark, almost the same shade as her ebony skin.
“Last year’s gala was a huge success, so this year we are going bigger, expecting more donors.” She continues, and by the end of the meeting, we have drafted a budget plan for the gala’s venue, décor, entertainment, marketing, etc.
“Great work, guys!” Kiara cheers us on. I don’t know what it says about the working climate I was used to, but a boss who tries to motivate and encourage its employees is a new thing. One I’ll gladly get used to.
On Tuesday, the purgatory of working in close quarters with Natalie starts again. She’s leading the venue and décor part of the planning, and from what I’ve gathered, she’s involved in every part of the planning process—unlike the other employees. Kiara’s list of tasks for her was never ending, but she wasn’t surprised by it or overwhelmed.
That’s just who she is. A woman who follows her little to-do lists and gets shit done. So, she isn’t scared of commitment in other areas. Rather, she commits to everything a thousand percent.
Everything other than men.
Today, she’s wearing black slacks molded to her fit body and a beige blouse that goes perfectly with her olive skin. She looks beautiful with her hair straightened, though I prefer her curls.
She leads the meeting like she does any other conversation. Attracting the full attention of anyone in her vicinity. One by one, we go through the list of tasks to accomplish.
“Ok.” She claps her hands together. “I’ll need a volunteer to go with me in search of venues.” Looking around the room, Ipray for someone to volunteer. Rina answers my prayers and lifts her hand.
“Thanks, Rina, and I’d love your help, but I was thinking someone with more of legal expertise. So, we can deal with the contracts right away.” Rina snickers and it takes a second for me to realize Natalie landed a hopeful gaze on me.
