I hesitated, trying to find the right words.
“It's just... I'm not entirely sure I'm supposed to be doing this, you know? I've always focused on my career and responsibilities, and now I find myself outside my comfort zone.”
Allan chuckled, shaking his head.
"You're overthinking it. There’s no rulebook or manual for feelings and relationships. You can't plan or control every aspect of your life. Sometimes, you have to follow your gut."
I stared at my coffee for a moment, mulling over his words.
"I know you’re right, but it's not that simple. What if I make a mistake? What if I’m not cut out for this? What if it's not supposed to be? What if the timing is all wrong or completely the wrong person?”
Allan laughed, his voice carrying the lightness of someone who’d learned valuable love lessons.
"Alex, listen to me. There's no guaranteed formula for success in relationships. You can analyze and worry all you want, but in the end, it comes down to how you feel and how the other person makes you feel. If it works, it works. If it doesn't, you either become a poet or a philosopher. A win is a win.”
His words struck a chord within me.
Allan had always possessed a unique ability to see things from a perspective that was simultaneously carefree and wise.
"You make it sound so easy.”
Allan shrugged, a playful grin on his face.
“Well, it's not easy, but it's not rocket science. You have to be honest with yourself and the other person. If there's chemistry and a genuine connection, go with it. If not, it's better to figure that out sooner rather than later.”
As I contemplated his advice, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief.
I may have been overcomplicating things, letting my worries overshadow the potential for something extraordinary. Allan's laid-back approach was a reminder that life was meant to be experienced, not micromanaged.
I chuckled. "Sometimes I forget you're not just the family jester or artist. You've got a surprising depth of insight.”
Allan smirked, a twinkle in his eye.
"Why, thank you, kind sir. I do have my moments of brilliance,” he said while bowing his head.
We laughed, and the tension lingering in my chest slowly went away. Allan put things into perspective, reminding me that life’s uncertainties were a natural part of the journey.
“You know, that’s weird.”
“What?” I turned to Allan.
“Elizabeth had the same issue a few days back. And we talked about it.”
I sat up by reflex.
“She did?”
He nodded.
“Felt a rush of déjà vu right now.”
My heartbeat picked up.
“Did she mention the guy?”
Allan frowned, turning to me.
“Since when do you care about Liz?”