Dating : Finding Your Passion; Chapter Three

Tony pushed through the double doors leading to the food court on the mezzanine of their building, his friend Chuck trailing a half step behind.

« I’m telling you, Tony, they’re looking at you for a promotion. You could be vice president in no time if you play your cards right. »

Tony gave a half-smile. « All the cards in the world won’t help if we can’t get that new account that Second Fiduciary just sent across the hall. » He moved to the Korean spot that recently opened in the court. Chuck followed him, still talking a mile a minute about the chance at promotion for both of them if they win this new advertising account for Second Fiduciary Savings and Loan. He didn’t interrupt as his friend practically salivated over the opportunities winning this account would provide them.

« The turn around is fast on this one. I wonder why they want a workup by next week, » said Chuck.

« Speed speaks of desperation, » said Tony.

« Yeah, I think you’re right. Well, we’ll give them a hell of an idea, won’t we? » Chuck clapped Tony on the back, his eyes, showing just a little too much white, indicating his own desperate desire to move up the corporate ladder of Bozeman, Bozeman, and Messina Advertising Agency, Incorporated.

« Sure. No sweat. » Tony didn’t relish the next few days and nights at work, with little chance for rest or even a decent meal until the proposed ad was finished and ready to present to their new client. He knew the drill. He had started in this business as a young college grad and done very well for himself so far, but now he was beginning to wonder. Was it all worth it?

Suddenly, the world shifted slightly off-kilter when Tony noticed her. The one from last week. Nell was her name. Yes, Nell was right, he was sure. This time, he noted, she had on a cream-colored suit with leopard print heels and her hair was pulled up in a soft chignon that seemed to hold its shape by magic. His breath stopped all on its own. He froze, unable to shift his gaze from her face. He hadn’t seen her since that morning in the lobby, but he thought about her often, daydreaming and nightdreaming of other possible meetings.

Chuck noticed his friend’s lack of attention and followed his stare. He tapped the back of his hand on Tony’s chest. « Dude, that’s the lead on the proposal committee for the new account from Second Fiduciary. I met her this morning. She’s the one we have to impress if we want to win this account. »