“Clementina…” Dale repeats, wistfully “… that was my grandmother’s name. I’m Dale.” With that, Clementina squeezes Dale’s hand tightly and moves to get up. “Hold on. Are you sure that’s a good idea? I mean, you were just run down by a sumo.” Dale moves to help her to her feet.
She wobbles as she stands upright on her heels.
“What? Sumo? I think I’m fine… just a little woozy.” She begins to collect her briefcase and purse from the floor.
“I’m so sorry.” Begins Terry “I’m not used to buses. My weight is both a blessing and a burden. I hope you’re okay. Let us take you to a hospital so you can get checked out.”
“Oh, don’t worry about it. I’m just a little dazed, that’s all. I just need to get to my promotions company. I have a big meeting for a new account. It’s my first, and I want it to go off without a hitch.” She turns to Dale, still smiling. “Did you say ‘sumo’?”
Dale and Terry both stare blankly at her for a moment, then at each other.
“We should let this bus get on its way, don’t you think?” says Dale with a huge grin and offering Clementina his arm.
An hour and a half later, after a VERY successful meeting, (kicked off with a telling of Terry’s momentous introduction) all the papers have been signed and the appropriate hands have all been shaken.
“So, what are you doing for lunch?” Clementina asks Dale, coyly.
“We hadn’t made plans.” Dale responds, motioning to Terry who raises his hands with a smile and backs away.
“No, what are YOU doing for lunch?” she asks again, this time putting her hand on Dale’s. “I have a meeting in New York this afternoon. Would you like to come? The firm will pay for your flight, and we’ll be back late this evening. What do you say?”
Dale looks at Terry who is grinning from ear to ear. His huge shoulders let out a mock shrug as he winks at Dale.
Should Dale…
… go to the next meeting with Terry?
