by Jenny Bloom
Anna let another day or so pass and she sent another text to Lisa.
Anna: I hope you’re doing well. I would love to hear from you.
Even after the second text, Lisa was silent and Anna received no response. Anna wanted to believe that the lack of communication was due to Lisa’s phone service being temporarily unavailable. However, she finally realized that it was because she simple didn’t hear from Lisa at all.
Every time Anna thought about calling Lisa herself, she stopped herself. She had reached out and Lisa hadn’t responded. It may be fate telling her something.
Anna gave it one more day and sent a final text to Lisa.
Anna: I guess I was wrong. I thought you liked me. But your silence speaks volumes.
***
The night that Anna needed to work the art show, she dropped off Nina at Peter's house. When she got inside, Peter looked at her, motioning for her to come in.
“Is everything all right?” he asked.
“I’m not exactly sure. I feel a little led on,” she said.
“What’s the matter? I thought things were going better for you?”
“It’s a long story if you want to hear it.”
“Just because we didn’t work out, doesn’t mean that I don’t want what’s best for you. If you need someone to talk to, I’m always here for you,” Peter offered.
“I appreciate that. Is Nina off in her room?”
“Yeah. I got her that new video game she wanted,” he said.
“Good. I’m glad one of us did. It’s so weird how we're so good together as parents, but not as a couple,” Anna said.
“Well Anna, you’re gay. I remember after you had Nina, you didn’t want to have sex anymore. We've been co-parenting for years. We’re not a good fit for being lovers, but we are will always be friends,” he said.
“Well, do you remember when I said I met someone at the airport while I was trapped there?”
“Yeah. I first thought you were messing with me for a moment when you said that,” Peter said.
“Well, I gave her my number, but I haven’t heard a word from her. No calls or texts. I wonder if she isn’t really interested or perhaps she forgot about me. She seemed distant the moment I mentioned seeing each other when we got back home.”
“Is she local?” Peter asked.
“She lives in Ashburn. I ‘ve sent her several texts, but I haven’t received any responses. I’ve thought about calling her, but since she hasn’t responded to my texts, perhaps it’ll backfire on me,” Anna said.
“What if it does? Are you going to stop trying and give up?” Peter asked.
“No. I guess I really want to know if what I’m feeling is correct and whether I’m on the right track,” Anna pointed out.
“I’ll tell you right now, Anna, you are. You need to give yourself a little more credit. I can tell that you’re worried about a future relationship. I understand that. The beginning of any relationship will have its rocky moments. That’s just the way things go. If she doesn’t feel the same way, then move on. Stop obsessing about it,” he said.
“I know what you’re telling me is true. I really like her and felt a real connect with her. I’m just scared to find out the truth,” Anna remarked.
“Maybe she’s got her own demons too. We all have them,” Peter pointed out.
“True. I also worry that Nina won’t like her. You know how I am with that sort of thing. Nina doesn’t even know I’m a lesbian,” Anna said.
“You never explained it to her? I figured she already knew. I know at school they’ve been talking about it. You’ve heard about that, right?”
Anna tensed. “Damn, I haven’t read the newsletters for a while,” she said.
“There’s your problem. The school is becoming more open-minded about gender and sexuality. They’ve explained to the kids her age or older about this. They’re discussing the topic. Perhaps now is a good time for you to have that talk with her. What’s the worst that can happen? Remember that not telling your daughter will only hurt you and any future lovers,” he said.
“Will I ever see her again?” Anna asked, sighing.
“Well, if she’s local, what’s holding you two back? I mean, she’s obviously close enough to take the same plane Perhaps, you two can meet up?”
“Maybe Nina’s not ready to have someone come into her life,” Anna pointed out.
“Anna that isn’t on you. I don’t think it’s fair to you, or to Nina. Be honest about your feelings and explain it as you would to someone who doesn’t know. Nina might not get it right away, but kids are pretty quick to learn. They're talking about it more and more. So, it’s not like you’re introducing some ‘spanking new’ concept to her either,” he said.
“You’re right. Thanks, Peter. It’s great to have someone to talk to about it. I’ve been thinking about it a lot,” Anna said.
“You have to make the choice for yourself on what to do, Anna. If she’s worth the trouble, then, by all means, go for it. Otherwise, maybe it’s best if you backed off. But, of course, that’s ultimately up to you. Anyway, I’ll take care of Nina. I hope the art show goes well,” he said.
“Thanks Peter. I appreciate it,” she replied.
***
They parted ways, and Anna picked the phone up. She decided to call Lisa after all. Her call went straight to voicemail.
“Are you kidding me?” Anna said, puzzled and starting to become a bit angry.
The one time I try to make an effort to talk to Lisa, and of course, this happens. Anna was frustrated and annoyed with the way everything was transpiring. Maybe it was for the best that Anna spent her time alone, getting her job done and seeing what the future holds.
Chapter Ten
Lisa saved the texts that Anna had sent her. She wasn’t quite sure how to proceed. She wanted to talk to Anna, but she didn’t know what to say to her. Lisa went over to the bar to see and speak with Lauren. As she entered and walked up to the bar, Lisa saw Lauren cleaning glasses.
Lisa sat down at the bar. Lauren looked up and saw the look on Lisa’s face. Lauren raised her left eyebrow in doubt. Then she smiled.
“You’re a bit quiet. What’s going on?” Lauren asked.
“Nothing is going on. I’ll have the usual,” Lisa said.
“Of course you will. What, getting nice and drunk the night before your big show?”
“Ha ha, very funny. I need something to take the damn edge off,” Lisa said.
“I don’t blame you. It’s hard out there,” Lauren said.
“You’re telling me. What, with all the people looking at my art tomorrow. And, the woman I have a crush on eating away at my feelings. It sucks,” Lisa said.
“You still have a crush? You should go for it,” Lauren said.
“I know, but—” Lisa said.
“But what? Quit whining and do something about it. I mean, she’s obviously interested in you. She probably likes you a lot. Perhaps, there’s something bothering her about pursuing a relationship,” Lauren said.
“I guess so. Still, I’m bad with relationships and dating,” Lisa said.
“You’re still focused on Janice. You have to realize that moving on isn’t going to be a good thing unless you choose to do it. If you’re still obsessing over her, it’s only going to hurt you,” Lauren pointed out.
“You’re right and I hate it when you’re right,” she said.
“I know you do, but someone needs to state the obvious,” Lauren said with a smirk.
Lisa groaned, but she didn’t think she’d run into Anna anyway. However, when she finished her drink, she let out a sigh.
“Crap, I’ve got the art show tomorrow night. I hope at least someone backs me and supports my art. I know they’re going to be investors, but I want to believe at least one of them will take pity on my ass,” Lisa said with a laugh.
“Oh, you’d be amazed. Some people love the sad artist tale,” Lauren said.
Lisa finished her drink, her fo
urth that night. Afterward, the haze of the alcohol calmed her down. After the last drink, she paid her tab and headed back to continue working on her paintings.
***
After Lisa finished her final commission of the night, she sighed. It was nice, but the emptiness really never went away. Was it because of what happened with Janice? Or something more? Lisa didn’t know herself, but sometimes she just wished that things could be explained better. That life was easier to understand.
When it was time to get ready for the show, Lisa felt a feeling in her body, one that screamed to her she was in for a surprise.
As Lisa gathered her pieces and brought them in, the curator Dominick nodded.
“Glad to see you’re doing well after all this time,” he said.
“Eh, been better,” Lisa admitted.
“I know. I’m terribly sorry for your loss,” Dominick said.
“Thanks. I know it couldn’t be prevented. You know how it is,” she said.
“Still. My condolences,” he added.
He walked away, and for a moment, Lisa wondered if the art show was a good idea. She was famous enough to be known in the art community, and people did know about Janice. They would ask about her, but Lisa hoped it wouldn’t be a recurring thing.
Not too long after, Lisa had her first investor. They came over, looked at her work, and then nodded.
“You’ve really improved, Lisa,” the investor said.
“Thank you, sir. I’m happy you think so,” she replied.
“I’m sorry about what happened to you and with Janice and all,” he said.
“It’s fine, sir,” she said.
“I understand your troubles, but I hope for you, things do go smoother than ever,” he said.
“Right. Thank you,” she replied.
After he left, Lisa sighed. She knew they’d give her money, if only out of pity. For now, Lisa wanted nothing more than to forget everything.
After a while, she noticed a head of red hair. Immediately, she looked forward, recognizing it.
Anna? she said to herself.
There was no way Anna was at the art show. Why would she be? It made no sense at all! Then Lisa noticed the person come over. When she did, Lisa stopped.
“Hey,” Lisa said.
Anna turned and noticed Lisa standing there. A rush of annoyance flooded through her body, making her wonder why this was happening right then and there. But then, Anna spoke.
“I thought you never wanted to speak to me again since I never received a phone call or an answer to my text messages,” she said.
“No, that isn’t it at all. I’m so sorry for doing that. I’m just going through a lot right now. I’ve been thinking about you, though,” Lisa said.
“Thinking about me so much that you haven’t told me what’s going on, or checked up on me after the fact,” Anna said.
“I said I’m sorry. I came over here because I wanted to see you and try to explain,” Lisa muttered.
Anna nodded. “I’ll accept your apology, but that doesn’t mean I’m not still angry. How did I know how you felt?” Anna asked.
“Isn’t it obvious?” Lisa responded, with a bit of defensiveness in her voice.
“Not based on your actions. I wished things were different between us, but I guess it’s just the way things are. I still like you a lot,” she said.
“I apologize for getting defensive,” Lisa said.
“It’s okay. I’m angry with myself for getting mad too,” Anna replied.
The silence was awkward. Then, Anna spoke.
“Is there a reason why you were avoiding me? Did I do something wrong?” Anna asked.
“You didn’t do anything. It’s a personal thing. I would like to make it up to you. We can go out for dinner whenever you’re free,,” Lisa said.
Anna nodded and said, “That sounds like the start of the perfect apology. Anyway, I can see you put a lot of effort into your artwork. I hope things go well for you.”
“Thank you, I truly appreciate that,” Lisa said. Lisa felt a flush against her face.
“I’m going to tell my boss, Rupert about you. He said for me to choose someone to give a bit of our funding to. I like your art. So, yeah,” Anna said.
“You don’t have to do that,” Lisa said.
“I want to,” Anna insisted.
Lisa nodded. “Fair enough. What do you want from me then,” she asked.
“A date,” Anna said with a smile.
Lisa looked at her with shock on her face.
“You mean the two of us,” Lisa asked.
“Of course, you and I. I want to go on a date with you, Lisa. I know deep down you want that too,” Anna said.
Lisa blushed but then nodded. “I’d be lying otherwise,” she said.
“Good. I’m glad we see things somewhat similarly. I hope that we can both work through it together,” she said.
“I do too,” Lisa agreed.
“I should probably head to the other artists. Most of them aren’t as exciting as your art though,” Anna said.
“Welcome to the art community around here. They usually have the personality of a bunch of sticks. I’m only popular because of a few pieces sold not too long ago. However, I’d rather talk to you more than anything,” Lisa said.
“Well, I’m glad I can do something,” she said.
“You’ve done a lot. Thanks,” Lisa said.
Anna then turned, looking at Lisa once more before speaking.
“And answer my texts, will you?” Anna teased.
Anna walked off, leaving Lisa standing there and processing everything that just transpired. She was happy to finally have some support, some funding. and some assistance. How should she open up to Anna. Perhaps being a mom, Anna understood the power of loving someone to the point where, even in death, giving up how and what you felt was hard. All Lisa could do was jump and make another leap of faith.
Chapter Eleven
Anna noticed the slight hesitation agreeing to a date. Anna didn't believe it was more than being surprised at the art show, but something seemed almost off.
Still, she couldn’t stay angry or upset. Anne understood that everyone had reasons for doing what they did and what they do. Anna was relieved and elated seeing her again. Anna called Peter to give him the news.
“Hey Anna,” he said.
“Hi, Peter. I have a date on Sunday with Lisa. Can you take care of Nina?”
“Of course. I wanted to do that anyway. I want to take her ice skating,” he said.
“That’s perfect. Thanks, Peter,” she said.
“Congrats by the way. I’m glad you’re finally moving forward in life and not holding yourself back,” he said with a laugh.
“I’m trying Peter. I’m still concerned about Nina.”
“Anna, I’m her dad, and I’m pretty sure if you told her that you were a three-headed dragon, she wouldn't care. She adores you. She’ll understand,” he said.
“Thanks Peter,” she said.
“No problem. Anyway, it’s late and I have work in the morning. Good night,” he replied.
Anna hung up and sighed. She was happy to have a date, but she wasn’t sure where to take Lisa. As Anna was mulling over places to go on their first date, Lisa texted her. She wanted to take Anna to a pottery class where they could make Christmas items. Anna just assumed they’d do that and maybe go home, but Lisa also said to dress warm. Anna felt a bit relieved. She wondered what Lisa had in store.
Anna made her way to her car after leaving the art show. She drove home thinking about Lisa. Before long, Anna drove up her drive. She was home. She walked into her house and went directly upstairs. She took a bath. While soaking in her tub, she thought about her work schedule.
Tomorrow would be a half-day at work. She would spend time on the projects that needed to be wrapped up. . She hoped everything worked out in her favor.
As she continued with her bath, Anna began to wonder what Lisa was going to do that weekend
. She knew that Lisa had a creative bug. She was an artist after all. Anna felt a smile creep up on her face.
She was excited to see where this date would end.
After her bath, Anna went to bed and slept soundly that night.
***
The next day, she went to Lisa's place. After knocking on the door, Lisa showed up in a cute peacoat, her blonde hair pulled back into a nice updo.
“There you are. Ready to go?” she asked.
“Of course. I’m excited,” Anna said.
“I am too. This pottery class will be fun,” Lisa said.
Anna meant the actual time they’d spend together, but she was excited for the class too. Anna and Lisa walked to the car. Anna noticed that Lisa opened the door for her. A real “gentlewoman” if she did say so herself.
“You’re so sweet,” Anna said.
“It’s a pleasure for such a beautiful woman as you,” she said with a smile.
Anna flushed, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. Anna then looked at Lisa and sighed.
“I’m just glad you agreed to it. I’ve been a little worried you’d call it off at the last second,” Anna said.
“And what makes you think that?” she teased.
“I don’t know. You seem a bit more reserved. It makes me wonder if you regret reconnecting with me,” Anna said.
“It isn’t regret. It’s a long story that I’ll share with you soon. I’ve thought about you a lot. It’s strange but meeting you as I did, falling as I did for you and then saying goodbye. Well, I missed you, Anna,” she said.
Anna looked at her, trying to see if she was lying, but she wasn’t.
“You’re telling the truth,” Anna pointed out.
“Why wouldn’t I be? I know how it is Anna. To think nobody cares or loves you. I know how you felt when I didn’t answer you back. It’s definitely something I’m not too proud of. You make me happy Anna. You make me happy. There’s no real explanation why we ran into each other as we did. Perhaps it could be fate that brought us together.,” Lisa said.
Anna sat there, trying to take in all that Lisa said to her. Then she buckled her seatbelt and was ready to go.
Lisa started the car. Anna watched as they sped away, heading over to the pottery studio. The whole date felt almost surreal. She still had that little bit of doubt in the back of her mind. However, she knew that Lisa was being honest with her. There was something powerful and refreshing with doing that.