“Okay,” I squeak. I’ve rarely seen Anna so serious and determined. I’m not sure what I’ve done wrong, but I get the feeling I might be put in the corner soon. I really hope she’s not testing motherhood on me.
“Do you find Andreas handsome and attractive?” she asks seriously.
“The most handsome and attractive man I’ve ever seen,” I answer with a deep sigh. I bite my lower lip, it’s the truth.
“Is he single?”
“Yep!” He told me that during the tour. I’m assuming that part of what he said was true.
“How long have you been single, and how long has it been since you had sex?”
“Anna!” I know exactly where she’s going with this.
“How long, Nora?” she presses.
“Almost two years,” I admit, my cheeks burning.
“If two consenting adults are attracted to each other and want each other, what’s the actual problem here, Nora? And don’t give me that bullshit about the sale! The deal’s signed, a kiss won’t change that.”
“I know, Anna, I know. But let’s be honest, a man like Andreas with someone like me? That’s not realistic. He probably has ten women for every finger. He lives in a completely different world. I don’t want to be the flavor of the week. When he gets tired of me, he’ll just toss me aside,” I defend myself.
“Nora, first of all, you’re not inferior to any other woman, or to Andreas—he should be grateful to have you. And second, even if he is the player you think he is, what’s the big deal? You’re not marrying him tomorrow, are you? I’m talking about one or two fun nights. What’s wrong with some casual fun between two adults? You could seriously use a good time, Nora. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” she giggles, clearly pleased with her answer. She’s utterly convinced of what she just said.
“Are you seriously recommending a one-night stand? Casual sex? Are you out of your mind, Anna?” This is so out of character for her. Is it the hormones?
“No, I’ve never been more certain about anything. You always sell yourself short romantically. You guard yourself so tightly, especially since David, and I get that, but I also want you to enjoy life. Maybe someday you’ll even be ready for a serious relationship again. Just think about it, Nora. Promise me?”
I can’t believe my ears. Of all the advice I expected tonight, this was the last thing I expected. Anna’s so traditional, been with Melvin forever, pregnant no less, and this is what she suggests? I really do need to think about this. We talk for a few more hours, laughing and downing cocktail after cocktail, but around 1 a.m., we call it a night. Anna’s dead on her feet, and I’m craving my bed and a good night’s sleep. Thankfully, I can sleep in tomorrow.
* * *
When I wake up around ten the next morning, I’m relieved I slept straight through the night. The rest did me good. I grab my phone from the nightstand and see a few messages. One from Anna thanking me for the treat and for the fun night. Another from Dennis asking if Anna and I want to go out together next Friday. Check—we’re in! Then my eyes land on a message from Andreas. My heart skips a beat when I see his name. With trembling hands, I open his text.
Andreas
Hi, Nora. Does next Friday at 10 am work for a walkthrough with my architect? Andreas
Sent at three in the morning? Andreas must keep long hours, but I doubt he was coordinating schedules with his architect at that time. Was he thinking about me in the middle of the night? I shouldn’t jump to conclusions—or overthink this. I check my Google Calendar and see that 10 a.m. works fine.
Nora
10 am is perfect, see you Friday!
A few seconds later, I already have a reply.
Andreas
I’ll see you first on Wednesday at 7 pm Rock-Fort. Andreas
Of course I’ll see him first on Wednesday. I quickly reply.
Nora
See you Wednesday, I hadn't forgotten.
Three seconds later, I get:
Andreas
