Switching it Up

Chapter Three-3

“Looks like you’ve found the perfect spot!” he says.

“Yes, it’s going to be a challenge to pass it up and go back. It would be rude to linger here a bit, wouldn’t it?” I ask.

“I think perhaps you might have to suffer through the rest of the meal, but it won’t be a long night. At least it isn’t usually. How are you coping with the transition so far?” Chris props himself on an adjacent stool, not too close for comfort, but near enough to be able to talk quietly. He’s coming across as a great guy—friendly, cool, great to be around. Easy company for the moment, or perhaps just a lot better than the alternative?

“My classes are awesome. They’re the best kids, I’m really lucky, I think. The move has been a good thing too; I hope it’s a new leaf in this chapter of my life. Greenville seems like a charming little town. It reminds me a little of the part of Australia my Grandma lived in, from distant memory. I think it’s the friendly people and wide open spaces. Have you been here in Greenville long?” The drinks arrive, and it seems redundant to be sitting here in the bar chatting, and a little rude to our companions.

“Australia? I thought it was all desert and kangaroos. I’m intrigued. This will have to be continued, definitely, Meg. Rendezvous after dinner for another refreshment? We should head back before they get their tongues around the idea that we are both absent at the same time.”

“Sounds like a great idea. Is it anti-social to prefer the football show over our present company, Chris?”

“No, I think you’re on the money there. Let’s go, young lady.”

Chris gestures me ahead of him as we return to our table. Everyone is caught up in chatter and barely notices we’ve been gone. We settle in to our seats and engage with our peers. The main course is still a way off from arriving. Occasionally Chris looks across at me and grins a secretive, knowing smile. It all seems a little more bearable, and I’m enthused enough to play along for a little longer in this group dynamic. They are lovely people and I do want to get to know them and bond with them. It was perhaps just a little overwhelming initially and I was unnerved. They’re going to be my colleagues for a few years yet. Best start out on a good footing, and that takes some time and patience. The scotch starts to soak in and the relaxation increases. It’s not really so bad after all.