She was quiet for a while before finally apologizing. “I am sorry about that, but I had my reasons for resigning and before you blow it off, just know that they are very cogent.”
What personal reasons could it be? She was doing her job well, even when we didn't see eye to eye. So what could it possibly be?
“Does this have anything to do with the kiss?” I asked, without mincing words.
She looked up instantly, like I had just exposed a secret she was trying to ensure didn’t see the light of day. That was my answer.
“No.” She denied it, but her body language betrayed her.
“See, Licia. The kiss doesn't have to mean anything to you. I wasn’t trying to make you uncomfortable or anything. I am sorry if the kiss put you off, but I am not going to apologize for doing so. I love you, Licia. I know I lost the right to say that long ago, but I always have and I always will.”
“Kevin…”
“You don’t have to tell me you love me. I just need a chance to make it up to you.”
“It’s been such a long time, Kev. Things are not the same as before,” she
pointed out.
My heart leapt for joy. Did she just call me Kev? I was breaking down her walls... little by little.
“I am well aware of that. But I am willing to start all over, if you let me.”
“I will think about it and tell you what I have decided, but I make no promises.”
“Should I take your word for it?”
“Yeah. You know I don’t throw words around.”
She was right. It was one of the things that I admired about her. She was principled down to her words.
“One more thing, Licia. Do you mind coming back to be my nurse, please?”
She shook her head. “That can’t be, Kevin. You have nothing to worry about though. Melony would take good care of you, you don’t need me there.”
“Why do I have a feeling you are the one that put her up to it?”
She laughed heartily, “Not really, but yes, I recommended her to the Chief and he gave her the job.”
“You really went through that much stress to get away from me? I am heartbroken.” I tried acting hurt, but she didn’t fall for it.
“Your acting skills are poor, Kevin. Stick to sports,” she commented, still giggling.
“Probably, you can teach me a few skills.” I winked at her.
I was glad the atmosphere was more cheerful and lively. We even took a bold walk down memory lane, reminiscing on our fun times together, as we laughed.
“What can I get you?” She asked, rising to her feet.
“A glass of water will be just fine,” I responded, adjusting my jacket.
“I won’t have that. This is your first time here.” She insisted.
I tried protesting. “True, but it wasn’t…”
“Join me for dinner.”
I smiled. I would be a fool to refuse the olive branch she extended. Lexie would literally kill me if she found out I declined dinner at Licia's.
