They widen their eyes dramatically as they straighten and pull away. I chew on my lip, my mind spinning with possibilities.
“And that’s not normal for this kind of thing? For there to be big announcements?”
“Nope.” They pop the ‘p’ as they lean back in their chair. “Never heard this type of rumor before, normally it’s just if they’ll have gifts or bonuses or a live band, stuff like that.”
“Huh.” For some reason this information settles like a stone in my stomach. I glance at Asher’s empty desk, wishing he were here to offer his input. We’ve been spending a couple nights a week together at his place lately and I’ve become addicted to his presence.
I lose patience with waiting and decide to text him.
Me: Hey, you coming back to the office today?
Asher: I hoped to but this meeting is taking longer than expected, some issues came up.
I chew on my abused lip again, debating if it’s worth bringing up the party. Before I can decide, my phone buzzes again.
Asher: Btw, I assumed we’d go together but just in case - would you like to go to the company party with me?
Me: I’d love that
Me: Any tips on what I should wear?
Asher: Formal, it’s always a nice event.
Me: Ok. What are you going to wear?
I stare at my phone as three dots appear and then disappear.
Asher: Charcoal suit and tie probably. Why?
Me: Oh, no reason
Asher: What about you?
Me: Not sure
Asher: What’s wrong? You’ve only sent one emoji this whole conversation.
Me: Nothing! Just a little nervous I guess…
Asher: Ah, about the event? It is a little intimidating if you’re not used to it. Send me pics later and I’ll try to help if you want.
I start flinging clothes out of my closet as soon as I get home.
“Why does it look like a tornado in here?” Zuri walks in and comes to an abrupt halt when she seesthe chaos.
“I don’t have anything to wear!”
“She’s been freaking out since she got home,” Reverie calmly tattles.
“Uhh, looks to me like you have plenty to wear," Zuri says, staring pointedly at the clothes strewn about the room.
“No, I mean for the company event. It’sblack tie, Zuri. Formal! I don’t have anything formal!”
I thrust my hands into my hair as I turn back to my closet.
“You absolutely do. Scoot.” Zuri hip checks me to the side as she strides to my closet and shoves everything to the left. Hangers screech, clothes fall, my shoe rack goes tumbling.
I groan.
