You Didn't Wait

The person in front of me is not at all like myself; she is a college buddy of mine. We're sitting in a local café, and she's telling me about her family problems. Her parents want her to marry as soon as the year ends, whereas I already have a job and the choice of whether to marry. My father never chastised me for getting mediocre marks, whereas her parents chastise her if she doesn't get the first grade; I've never heard them praise her. I absolutely sympathize with her.

“Are you even paying attention to what I'm saying?” I was able to break free from my thoughts.

“Yes,” I said.

In a hushed tone, “I really don't want to be married, you know, so I'm thinking of running away.”

“What happens after that? Your family has a lot of power. Do you believe they'll let that happen?”It will be a very dangerous situation because her family is quite wealthy and has a lot of resources.

“Why don't you seek the assistance of your fiancé?” He is extremely wealthy, so if he intervenes, her parents will have no choice but to comply.

But why is she staring at me with that odd expression?

“Are you all right?” I inquired.

“I have something urgent to attend,” she added as she walked away. I called her, but she didn't answer.

 

“Why this?” I'm at work, and I'm standing outside the manager's office door. When I knocked, he said, “Come in.”

With a grin, he said, “I am very surprised to see you.”

 Even if I despise him, he's still a safe bet. He was a three year senior at my school, and our families were close friends. But he's a playboy, and it's been a month since he's been here. I'm considering resigning, but I still owe my last year's fees. So I kept my distance, but today I need his help.

“I heard you haven't appointed any receptionist” I asked.

“I have someone in my mind who would be perfect” I added.

“That's not enough,” he stated solemnly.

“Give her a chance,” I replied, almost pleadingly.

“Why should I? Why should I support you in helping her?” he gently said.

“What exactly do you mean by that?” 

“Come out on a date with me, and I'll do whatever you say,” he offered.

I can't believe what he's said; I want to punch him, but I have to restrain myself.

“Fine, but I'll set the time and place, and I'll need an appointment letter for her first,” I said calmly. “Deal, the letter will be emailed to you,” he smiled.

I stepped out of his office and took a deep breath. 

“Finally”I breathed out. I will surprise her tomorrow. 

At my workstation, there was a tap. “So, where is your friend?” he inquired. Are you breaking the agreement ?”

I responded coldly, “She died.” I had a lot of questions. But no one can answer these questions anymore, why, why didn't you wait one, just one more day? I thought as I stared blankly at the folders on my table. “Sorry, you may take the day off if you wa.....” he continued after a brief pause. I interrupted him in the middle of his statement and said, “No, it's fine.” I went back to work after he departed.