Chapter 20: Offer
Adam turned to go back to his room, but Sophia saw him. She ran ahead and shouted at him. "Wait, Adam."
The sound of her voice halted him. He paused, his hand on his doorknob. He turned to face her again. He extended his thumb over his shoulder and pointed at his residence. He said, "I forgot to give you your bowl back this morning." It was a weak argument, but it was the first thing that came to mind. "I am going to go get it now."
After shaking her head, Sophia responded, "You can give it to me later." "I have got some good news for you."
Adam was surprised. "Good news?" he asked. "What good news could you share with me?"
Sophia took a big breath. She seemed a little uncomfortable. "I could not get it out of my mind when you told me last night that you lost your job," she said. "I apologize if I am getting in the way of your life."
Adam took a sharp breath. He could not believe that Sophia had been concerned about him all day. It felt strange and alien to have someone interested in his problems. hurriedly, "No no it is not like that," he responded. "I have no problem quitting that job. Either way, it took up too much of my time.
Sophia’s face brightened once more. She looked to Adam, anticipation shining in her eyes. "I actually had a conversation with someone at my high school," she said. "There is a teaching opportunity available at our school. I am sorry I did not ask your permission before doing this.
Adam was surprised. He could not think of anything to say. He had only just started talking to Sophia. She was not even familiar with him. But she was willing to do everything for him, no matter what. And she had gone out of her way to get him a job. He was about to refuse. He was not a teacher. He had no degree. He was about to refuse her request.
Then he heard people coming up the steps. It was her boyfriend, Monty, and another acquaintance, Robin. They were getting close to the second story. Adam saw them. He instantly looked from Sophia to the group. He saw Robin’s eyes fixed on Sophia. He remembered the scenario from yesterday. He remembered the pleasure on Sophia’s face when she talked to Robin.
Adam sensed a rupture within himself. What it was, he did not know. A strange feeling of possessiveness came over him. He had thought he had suppressed his affections for Sophia. But when they noticed Robin here, they all hurried back to the surface. Sophia talking to Robin was something he did not desire. Seeing them together did not appeal to him.