“It’s not that I can’t do the job; I am capable. It goes deeper than that. It’s not even about me; it’s about my father. He has this huge legacy that I feel I’ll be compared to for the rest of my life, and it’s crippling. Comparison really is the thief of joy, like they say. I want to forge my own path, find my own thing. That’s why I’ve held back from dating for so long; why I haven’t found a wife, because I knew he would hand it over to me the moment I did. Meanwhile, I’m still trying to figure it all out.”
Things were starting to make sense. And boy, did I relate to his feelings. Though we came from two different walks of life, we had the same experiences through differentlenses. I could see that God put Blake in my life just when I needed him. I was learning so much from that man.
“There are two other things I want to tell you, and I’ll get out of your hair. First, my father made a call to Patricia after you left last night, and he got a copy of the plan you made for the outdoor space for the airport. He loved it, especially the cigar bar, given his personal preference for the indulgence.”
Blake smiled for the first time in our conversation as my heart leapt at where this was leading.
“Apparently, Patricia has been on thin ice for a while since getting wrapped up in some funny business. She thought the design could save her standing, so she was planning on submitting it next week while taking the credit completely.”
I shook my head. It sounded like she’d been in a very desperate situation, one I wouldn’t wish on anyone.
“My father will be implementing the outdoor space to your design, and he’s personally sent you an email regarding a job offer for a new position.”
Wow. I was floored but had a feeling why he would be showing me such kindness. “That’s wonderful, Blake. But he only did that because he thinks I’m your girlfriend.”
Blake’s smile faded. “Actually, no. I told them the truth last night, that we weren’t dating. They were disappointed in me, but it led to the first real conversation we’ve had in years about where I see my life taking me. Thanks to you, Claire, because for the first time in years, I feel like I have a real future on my own terms. Lord willing, of course. And I want you to know that my father wanted your design whether or not we were in a relationship. The design really is perfect, Claire. Nothing else will ever hold a candle.”
“Well, it’s safe to say I didn’t see this coming today. Thank you, Blake. You helped me out tremendously.” I looked over my shoulder, not wanting to leave the conversation, but feeling it come to a natural close. The line had dwindled down to just a few people. By the time I got there, it would be my turn to get on the lift. “I guess this is it. Take care of yourself, okay?” I leaned in and gave him a one-armed hug, holding my tall hot chocolate to the side so I wouldn’t spill it. I planned to drink it on the lift up.
“Claire?”
“Yes, Blake?
“Since you don’t have to worry about the job search, that is, if the job proposal works for you, I was wondering if you’d consider staying one more night. It’s New Year’s Eve after all, and I was hoping you would be my date.”
“I don’t know, Blake. I don’t think the lodge is doing anything special tonight.”
“They are doing an early fireworks display at ten tonight, perfect for all of us who can’t stay awake until midnight.”
He smiled, his eyes sparkling. I couldn’t say no to that.
“If you decide to stay, meet me at nine by the fireplace. If you decide to go home, I understand. I hope to see you, Claire.” He turned and left, disappearing into the lodge.
*****
The relief of my job released the tension throughout my back that I didn’t even realize I’d been carrying that week. And Blake’s asking me out intrigued me. I could barely wipethe smile off of my face as I tried to gracefully glide over to the ski lift, but it was more of a flailing than anything. By the time I got there, no one was in line. Tucking my poles under the arm that held my hot chocolate, I reached out for the chair with the other. Lo and behold, Theo came tearing it up from behind, taking the seat beside me. Ugh.
“Really, Theo?” This was getting weird. “How can I help you?” I didn’t mean to sound as snarky as I did, but it didn’t faze him either way.
“I need to talk to you, Claire.”
I looked over his shoulder. He had to have been close to take this opportunity. Had he been watching me this whole time? Watching Blake and me, too? “Well, I’m stuck with you on this lift for at least five minutes, so go ahead.” I took a drink of my hot chocolate that was perfectly cooled off, so I took a few more, knowing I would have to drink it before we made it to the top.
“I wanted to know if… If I could have another chance?”
My eyes almost bugged out of my head. “No.” The firm rejection was all I could muster. I felt my body revolt at the thought. “You were talking to another woman while wewere together. You dumped me the night before my big thirtieth birthday. You didn’t care that I didn’t want to break up. I spent Christmas alone. I didn’t hear from you for two weeks and… Now you want me back?” I left out the part where he made me feel terrible, because I didn’t want to go there.
“I know, and…”
The next words out of his mouth were so hard for him to say. I didn’t think he’d expected to be using the phrase at that moment, but the situation was spiraling out of control.
“I’m sorry, Claire...” His voice trailed off, and I couldn’t tell if he was apologizing or asking me if he should be sorry.
“Is that a question or an apology? Don’t answer that. It doesn’t matter, Theo.”
He smiled, and I didn’t know why.
“Great! So, can we start over? Truth is, I didn’t realize what I had walked away from until I saw you here this week. I think with a full season of ski lessons, every weekend at least, we could have you in a good place—if not this year, then next. What do you think?”
