Chapter 34
Meanwhile, my relationship with Lorraine was progressing well.
“There’s a concert next weekend. Would you like to go together?” I texted her.
She quickly replied, “I’d love to. Will it be just the two of us?”
I took a deep breath before responding, “Yes. If you don’t mind.”
“Not at all. I’m looking forward to it.”
The entire week leading up to the concert felt like a whirlwind of anticipation. Work seemed less dull, and I found myself smiling every night while reading with Jonas.
Finally, the weekend arrived. I put on a suit I had not worn in ages and headed to the concert hall. The moment I saw Lorraine, it felt like time had stood still.
She was wearing an elegant black evening dress that made her look both sophisticated and beautiful.
Lorraine smiled as she walked toward me, saying “You made it!”
“Lorraine, you look stunning tonight,” I praised her sincerely.
She blushed slightly. “Thank you. You look very handsome yourself.”
The concert was magnificent, but I found my attention constantly drawn to Lorraine beside me. We exchanged glances throughout the performance, sharing a comfortable chemistry that filled me with warmth.
After the concert, we decided to visit a nearby coffee shop. Under the soft lighting, we talked about everything from work to life, from past experiences to future dreams.
I found myself opening up about things I had never shared with anyone before, while Lorraine listened attentively. She even offered occasional advice and encouragement.
“I’m grateful that you trust me enough to share all this,” Lorraine commented suddenly.
I looked into her sincere eyes and felt a warmth spread through my chest. The coffee shop’s soft lighting softened her features, making her appear even more delicate.
I took a sip of coffee, letting the bitter taste linger before saying, “Lorraine, I should be the one thanking you. Without your support these past few weeks, I might still be stuck in the same place.”
Lorraine smiled and shook her head. “Everyone needs time to heal. What matters is that you’ve taken an important step forward.”
We shared a knowing smile, but then my phone suddenly vibrated. I glanced at it–Hayden was calling.
“Sorry, it’s Hayden,” I said apologetically to Lorraine before answering. “Hello, Hayden.”
Hayden’s voice came through. “Cole, where are you? I just finished a meeting and wanted to
talk.‘
I hesitated, glancing at Lorraine before responding, “I’m at the coffee shop in West End, with Lorraine.”
There was a brief pause before Hayden replied, “Oh? Perfect. I’m nearby, so I’ll swing by in a
bit.”
After hanging up, I awkwardly explained to Lorraine, “Hayden’s coming over.”
Lorraine chuckled. “That’s fine. He’s a friend.”
Soon after, Hayden walked in. He grinned when he spotted us. He approached our table and greeted us, “Cole, Lorraine, it’s nice to see you two getting along so well.”
I stood up to make room for him. “Hayden, have a seat. Want anything to drink?”
Hayden waved his hand as he sat down. “No, I’m good. Just thought I’d stop by and say hi since I was nearby.”
