No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

"Ms. Hudson, you might not know this, but I've never been in a relationship. Pure as the driven snow, unlike Ms. Hudson's colorful love life with ex- fiancés, ambiguous flirtations, and who knows what else," Ernest looked at me, speaking in a measured tone.

I opened my mouth to respond, but before I could, he suddenly looked down. "So, if anyone should be worried, it's me. If word got out that you and I shared a room last night, people might start questioning my purity."

"Are you implying that I've somehow tainted your purity?" I asked, more than a little annoyed.

"Not at all. You were completely proper last night. There was no inappropriate behavior on your part," Ernest's tone made him sound like a damsel in distress, and me, the villain taking advantage.

Honestly, this man is just too much!

I seethed internally, unable to voice my frustration, and took it out on my breakfast instead.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

"If Mr. Collins is so concerned about his purity, perhaps he should keep his distance," I retorted after finishing my muffin.

"That would be difficult unless we're no longer working together," Ernest stood up, leaving his napkin on the table.

I was speechless.

After breakfast, Deborah had also finished hers. She bid farewell to her classmates, promising to call ahead next time she was in Seabreeze City so they could catch up properly.

Just as her classmates drove off, she turned to me. "Felicia, what were you and Mr. Collins talking about? He seemed pretty engaged."

I was utterly flabbergasted; that girl's mind was clearly elsewhere.

Even while dining with her friends, her attention was on me.

"Nothing much," I replied, hoping to cut off any further inquiry.

Deborah blinked in disbelief, so I added, "Just work stuff, probably means longer hours ahead."

"What?" Deborah's smile turned into a frown instantly. "Mr. Collins really doesn't know how to treat a lady. Absolutely inhumane."

I didn't respond but joined her for a day out at the amusement park, waiting for Ernest who hadn't arrived yet.

When we got there, Ernest just showed up on a scooter.

"Felicia,

every day? I can't believe there aret

Sun Collins rides a scooter.

still guys who do that," Deborah was astonished, and so was I.

wcontent

I thought he either took cabs or public transport; it never crossed my mind he'd use a rental scooter.

"Mr. Collins, you really shouldn't ride

that anymore. Join us next time; Felicia's car has plenty of room Deborah, ever the mediator, offered on my behalf.

Just as I was about to say something, Ernest looked at me, "Alright, I'll take Ms. Hudson up on that offer."

I was at a loss for words. Twice in one morning, he totally outsmarted me.

All I could do was vent my frustration on Deborah. "Deborah, next time, could you maybe consult me first?"

Deborah could Hell I was upset.

"Felicia, I was just thinking about efficiency and safety. Mr. Collins is new in town, and scootering around can be dangerous. If something happened to him, how could we meet our deadlines?"

I sighed.

"Felicia, I promise I'll ask you first next time," Deborah said, hugging me and trying to charm her way out of trouble.

Reluctantly, I tapped her on the head. "Today, you're on errand duty."

"Sure thing, Felicia. I've got the legs for it," Deborah was unflappably optimistic.

"So, you'll partner with Mr. Collins today, and I'll coordinate with Graham on another front. I'd rather not deal with Ernest today."

But no sooner had I arrived at Graham's than Deborah called. "Felicia, we're done for the day."

"What?" I was puzzled.

"Mr. Collins said to take a day off," Deborah's words set me off.