“And you’re only telling me now? Who is he? Does he work here? Maybe I know him…”
“It’s fairly new. I didn’t think it was appropriate to talk about.”
“Of course, of course. Got it. What does he do?”
“He’s… A chef.”
“Wow! A chef? Seriously?”
I don’t know why he’s so shocked.
Should I be offended?
“I guess I’ll meet him this evening, then?”
Oh, God, I really hope he’s free.
“He’ll try to come, but you know, with work… He can’t just drop everything…”
“I’m sure that he’ll find a way to be there for our favourite professor.”
I smile politely at him as he waves and disappears down the hallway, probably in search of other colleagues to tell.
Professor Smith has a problem with his mouth. He can’t keep it shut – especially not when it comes to gossip, and especially not when it comes to me.
I head quickly outside, phone in hand, hunting for his number and calling him immediately, before I can change my mind.
“Hey,” I say as soon as I hear his voice. “Is this a good time?” I can hear the clatter of the kitchen in the background. “Are you at work?”
More noises, then silence.
“Sorry, it’s always a nightmare at this time of day.”
“I didn’t mean to bother you at work. I’m sorry.”
“No problem, I’ve just locked myself in the toilet. What can I do for you, Mr. Quinn?”
I take a deep breath and get straight to the point.
“I think I’ve found a way for you to repay me.”
“Repay you?”
“For the favour I’m doing you.”
“You mean pretending that you like me?”
I blush without a reason. “That’s the one.”
“I’m all ears.”
“There’s this thing…”
“What kind of thing?”
“An event. Here, at Trinity. For the opening of a new library.”
“Let me guess: you need a date?”
