Chapter 23: Offer 4
Sophia let out a sigh. She gave a headshake. "Okay," she replied. "Hurry up." After turning around, she returned to her own apartment to wait.
Adam shut the door. For a minute he leaned against it. He thought he was a fool. He had neglected his vow to her last night because he was so preoccupied with his own sadness. He ran through his small flat. He picked up a fresh change of clothes. He hurried to the restroom and showered as quickly as he had ever done.
He emerged from his apartment ten minutes later. He shut the door and secured it. By the stairs, he could see Sophia was waiting for him. Her arms were crossed as she stood. She gave him a look. He was dressed in a pair of dark pants and a plain but tidy shirt. His hair was combed. He had a respectable appearance.
He gave Sophia a look. She wore an outfit that was both elegant and formal. Despite its simplicity, the design exuded professionalism. For a teacher, it was the ideal ensemble. She looked stunning, in his opinion. That was what he wanted to tell her. However, he paused. He was bashful.
Sophia noticed that he was staring at her. The uneasy silence was broken by her. She pointed to her clothing and asked, "What do you think?" "Is this dress good for a teacher?"
Adam grinned. His hesitancy disappeared. He exclaimed, "It is very nice," with enthusiasm. "I was going to say that just now. You look stunning in it."
Sophia’s cheeks became slightly flushed. She grinned. "Let us go," she referred to. "We are already late."
Together, they descended the steps. There was no longer any uneasiness. They settled into a cozy stillness. A tiny glimmer of hope returned to Adam’s heart. He was strolling beside her.
Together, they were heading somewhere. That was plenty for now. Later, he would handle the interview. He would simply savor the now.
This brief, ideal moment spent with Sophia. Despite its fragility, it was something. And something was better than nothing at the moment. All he could hope was that he would not ruin it.