Out in the Open

by Glazer, J B

  “I like your costume,” says Hailey.

  “Thanks. I’m Wonder Woman—she’s a superhero. Lexi got this for me. Do you want to dress up too?” Hailey nods. “Come with me to my room,” Molly says as she takes Hailey by the hand. Jake and I follow them upstairs, but Molly informs us adults are not allowed.

  “Oh, OK,” I say. “We’ll be downstairs if you need something.”

  Jake and I head into the kitchen, and I tell Rachelle we’ve been kicked out already. “I think this is working out just fine,” she jokes. She offers us something to drink, and Jake and I accept a glass of lemonade. Rachelle is very interested in learning about Jake. I told her I was dating someone at work, but I haven’t disclosed many details. She asks him what he does and how we met. It’s funny—I’ve never had to share the story before. I look at Jake with an amused expression, letting him take the lead.

  “Well, I first met Lexi when she interviewed for a position on our Lumineux account. It was an account I’d just brought into the agency, so I wanted to make sure we hired the right person. I was very intrigued by her, and we immediately established a good rapport. After that we kept running into each other outside of work. And with each encounter, I was pulled in further. At first I suppressed my feelings because I was hesitant about dating someone at the office. But then I figured maybe things were meant to be. She’s unlike anyone I’ve ever known.”

  “That’s so romantic,” Rachelle says. I’m about to ask her how she met her husband, but we’re interrupted by the return of Hailey and Molly.

  “Let’s go play in the basement,” Molly says, motioning for Jake and me to follow.

  “Duty calls,” I joke to Rachelle.

  We go downstairs, and it’s every little girl’s dream. Bright flowers in various sizes adorn the yellow walls, except for one, which is finished with chalkboard paint and displays drawings. Benches with colorful bins full of toys line one wall. There’s a princess ball pit in one corner and a trampoline in the other. In the center of the room is a princess castle, complete with a canopy. Then, around the bend, is another room with a kid-size table and chairs set up on colorful tiles; it appears to be an art area. Flower hooks hold a clothesline, which displays Emma and Molly’s masterpieces.

  “I love it down here,” I tell Molly.

  “Me too!” exclaims Hailey. “Can we have a tea party?”

  Molly nods as she retrieves her princess tea set from one of the bins. “We can have tea at the table,” she informs us. She instructs each of us where to sit. “Do you want to dress up in something else?” she asks Hailey, who nods and follows her to the dress-up bin. They choose new costumes, and Molly asks Jake if he wants to dress up too.

  “Sure. Do you have anything that will fit me?”

  She studies him and says, “Here, you can wear this,” as she hands him a tiara.

  I do my best to stifle a laugh. Jake is a good sport and plays along. He places the tiara on his head, but it keeps falling off. “I think it’s too small,” he tells Molly.

  “That’s because you need bobby pins.” She opens a drawer and hands me some. “Here, Lexi. You pin these on Jake.” I put the bobby pins in his hair, which do the trick to secure the tiara. “You need something else,” Molly informs him, and produces a hot-pink feather boa.

  He puts it on, and I take out my phone and snap a picture of him. “Blackmail,” I whisper. Then I turn to Molly and ask, “What about me? Do you have anything I can wear to the tea party?”

  She looks in her dress-up bin and pulls out some necklaces and a scarf. She gives each of us a necklace, including Jake, and hands the scarf to me. I tie it around my head. “Now we are ready for tea,” she says. She pours each of us a cup, and I pretend to drink mine.

  “Wait, we didn’t put the sugar in yet!” Hailey admonishes us.

  “Sorry. I thought it tasted a little funny. Please pass the sugar.” I put in two spoonfuls, and Jake does the same.

  “Mmm. This is the best tea I’ve ever had,” he tells the girls. “Are there any cookies?”

  “We forgot the cookies!” says Molly.

  “Let’s go bake some,” says Hailey.

  They go over to the play kitchen to whip up a batch. As I watch them work, I’m amused by their conversation. Then Molly tells Hailey about her Make-A-Wish commercial. I smile at the memory of it. The experience lifted her spirits and Rachelle told me it ignited her passion for acting. She belongs in front of the camera.

  What are you smiling about?” Jake asks.

  “Nothing. I’m just glad we did this,” I say. “Thanks for coming with me and suggesting we bring Hailey. The girls are having a great time together.”

  “I’m glad it worked out. So what are you planning to do with that picture?”

  “I haven’t decided. Just know that if you ever cross me, I won’t only post it on Facebook, but I’ll also make copies and hang them around the office.”

  “You wouldn’t dare!”

  “Oh, but I would.”

  “Well then, I’ll just have to find something to hang over your head.”

  “Go ahead and try.”

  “Believe me, I know all your weaknesses,” he says with a dark expression. I feel my cheeks redden. The girls come back with the cookies. “They’re ready. Which one do you want?” Molly asks. I choose one with chocolate frosting and sprinkles. Jake asks if he can have two.

  “Did you eat all of your lunch?” Molly asks him.

  “Yes, I did.”

  “OK, you can have two.”

  I look at my watch and see that it’s after five. “Girls, unfortunately we’re going to have to wrap things up soon.” This is met with a lot of groans and protest. “I know you’re having lots of fun playing together, but it’s almost dinnertime.”

  “You can stay here,” Molly offers.

  “We’d love to, but your mom said you’re going out to eat with your grandma. Another time.” I let them play a few minutes longer, and then we all head upstairs.

  I tell Rachelle the girls had a great time playing together. “I’m so glad. Molly doesn’t have that many play dates. She usually tags along with whomever Emma is playing with. You’re all welcome to come over anytime.”

  “Thanks,” I tell her. “We should definitely do this again.”

  She gives Jake a hug and says, “It was so nice meeting you. Lexi is very special to our family, and I’m glad we finally got to meet the one responsible for her happiness.”

  “She’s a special girl,” Jake says, smiling at me. “And Lexi always speaks so fondly of Molly that I wanted to meet her.” I realize I forgot to give Molly her gift from our trip to Aruba. “I’ll be right back,” I tell everyone. I get my purse and come back with the wrapped package.

  “This is a little something I got you when I was on vacation.” Molly takes the package from me and says, “Can I open it now?”

  “Sure.”

  She rips open the paper and sees the bracelet. She puts it on and admires her wrist. “Thank you so much. I love it!”

  “I’m glad. Thank you for inviting us today.”

  “Yes,” says Hailey. “Thanks for having me over to play,” she tells Molly as she gives her a hug.

  “Wait, let me get a picture,” I say, wanting to capture the moment. I text Rachelle the photo, and we head out.

  Hailey is very talkative on the drive home. Jake calls Kate to let her know we’re on our way. It’s hard to pay attention to their conversation because Hailey is gushing about Molly’s basement. After he hangs up, he tells me Kate invited us to stay for dinner.

  “I told her I had to check with you first,” he says.

  “That’s fine.”

  “Are you sure? We’ve been out in the burbs all day.”

  “Honestly I don’t mind.” He calls Kate back to tell her we’re on.

  “She probably just wants us to be a diversion so she can rest,” I joke.

  “Probably, although she has Adam.”

  “That’s my
point. She has to take care of two children.”

  “Women,” he says, and rolls his eyes.

  That night, on the drive home from Kate’s, Jake says, “So your birthday’s next week.” My birthday is this coming Thursday. He hasn’t mentioned anything about it until now, and I didn’t know if I should bring it up.

  “I wasn’t sure you remembered.”

  “Of course I remembered. We talked about it when we were in San Francisco.”

  “Well, that was a long time ago. Plus we didn’t really talk about it. You just looked at my license, and if I recall, there was a lot of wine involved.”

  “Trust me, I have a very good memory. Is there anything special you want?”

  “It’s thoughtful of you to ask, but I really don’t need anything. My only wish is to spend my birthday with you.”

  Jake’s face falls, and he says, “I’ll be in San Francisco through Friday. But we’ll definitely celebrate on Saturday.”

  “OK,” I say, pouting.

  “I’m sorry, Lex.”

  I really shouldn’t be upset, but in my family, we’ve always made a big deal about our birthdays. I know Jake and I will celebrate on Saturday, but it’s just not the same.

  On Monday Liv invites me over for dinner. “What are you going to do for your birthday?” she asks.

  “I don’t know. I took the day off weeks ago, thinking maybe Jake and I would do something, but he’ll be in San Fran. We’re going out Saturday night.”

  “Out? As in to a restaurant?”

  “I assume. But now that you mention it, he just said we’d celebrate that night.” I give an inward sigh.

  “How are things going?”

  “Good, although I think he’s upset I haven’t introduced him to my family. He’s made comments about it here and there, and he seems more distant lately, but maybe I’m reading into things. He’s been really busy, so I could be taking it the wrong way.”

  “So when are you going to have him meet your family?” Liv asks.

  “I don’t know. I don’t have a set timeline. My dad once said he doesn’t feel the need to meet anyone I’m dating unless we plan on getting married.”

  “Lexi, that was a long time ago. Wasn’t that before you met Ben?”

  “Yes, but given how that turned out, I’m in no rush.”

  “So do you think he’s the one?”

  “I’d like to think so,” I tell her. “But I thought Ben was the one. How do you ever know really?”

  “When you know, you know.”

  “But you didn’t know with Jason.”

  “Not right away, but once I decided I liked him, I knew.”

  “Really? You never told me that.”

  “I knew he was different from anyone I’ve ever dated,” she says. “I found myself thinking about him all the time—what he’d think or do in different situations—when he wasn’t there, and I realized he was the guy I wanted to be with. He loves me for who I am, and I feel like he really gets me. And I never have to worry about what’s he’s thinking because he’s always honest with me.”

  “Sounds like me and Jake.”

  “That’s my point. You’re really into him, but you’re so scared of getting hurt again that you won’t let him in fully.” Liv can read me like a book. “Does he make you happy?”

  “Yes.”

  “Then tell him.”

  “I will, when I’m ready.”

  “Now where have I heard that before?”

  After my conversation with Liv, I have a hard time falling asleep. I know I should open up to Jake, and I feel like I have in many ways. But I’m just not ready to give myself completely. To be honest, I’m not even sure what’s holding me back at this point; it’s something I can’t quite articulate. I’m starting to worry Jake is losing patience with me because he’s seemed different these past few weeks. Granted, I’ve only noticed small, subtle changes, but they’re there. I just hope he thinks I’m worth the wait.

  Simon stops by my office the next morning. “Why so glum?” he asks.

  “I didn’t know I was.”

  “Birthday getting you down?”

  “No, I actually enjoy my birthday. It’s the one day a year I hear from all the people I care about.”

  “And some people you don’t,” he teases.

  “That too.”

  “What are you doing on Thursday?” he asks.

  “I took the day off, but I don’t have anything special planned. I’ll probably sleep in and go shopping.”

  “Well, at least let me take you out for a drink.”

  “OK,” I tell him. “That would be nice.”

  “I hope you don’t mind meeting on the earlier side. I have a client obligation after work.”

  “How early?”

  “How about eleven in the bar at the Sofitel?”

  “That sounds perfect. You know I love it there.”

  “I know, and it’s not too early for a Bloody Mary.”

  “Deal. Thanks.”

  “See you then.”

  After he leaves, my thoughts turn to Ben. I wonder whether he’ll call me—he always made a big deal about my birthday. I still haven’t returned any of his calls. I probably should, but I think it’s best to cut ties completely. I’ve always felt it’s never a good idea to remain friends after a breakup; it always ends in heartache.

  I wake up Thursday morning to a text from Jake.

  Happy birthday to my beautiful girl. Wish I could be there with you to celebrate.

  I smile and roll out of bed. It’s 8:00 a.m.; he’s on Pacific time and won’t be up yet. I go for a leisurely run along the lakefront then shower and get dressed. I decide to wear a black shirtdress that has gold buttons down the front, a sash at the waist, and a pleated skirt that gives it a feminine shape. I pair it with sleek, purple pumps that have a gold cap at the toe, along with gold bangle bracelets. Once I’m dressed I eat a light breakfast. If I’ll be drinking, it’s best to not do so on an empty stomach. I check my phone, and already I have a bunch of messages. They definitely lighten my mood, although I’m still bummed Jake isn’t here. I tell myself it’s just one day, and I’ll see him this weekend.

  I walk to the Sofitel and scan the lobby. I don’t see Simon, so I take a seat on one of the couches.

  A woman from the reception desk approaches me. “Are you Lexi?”

  “Yes,” I tell her, slightly puzzled.

  “This is for you,” she says, handing me an envelope. It’s written in Simon’s handwriting.

  Lexi, I have a surprise for you. Come to room 714.

  Inside the envelope I see a room key. Curious as to what he has up his sleeve, I head upstairs and let myself into a luxurious suite. “Hello?” I call out as I walk in. I make my way through the modernly furnished rooms, taking in the panoramic views offered by the floor-to-ceiling windows. I look around and see there’s a room service tray in the dining room, and the table is set for two. Is he surprising me with lunch? “Simon, where are you?” I finally open the door to the master suite and find two massage tables set up.

  “I thought you could use some relaxation on your birthday,” says a voice from behind me. I turn around, and Jake is standing there. I’m momentarily speechless.

  “What are you doing here?” I manage.

  “You told me you wanted to be with me on your birthday. So I took an earlier flight home.”

  “I can’t believe you’re here,” I say, realizing he’s constantly coming through for me. Suddenly I’m overwhelmed and feel tears well in my eyes. Fortunately Jake doesn’t notice because he has me enveloped in a big hug. “I can’t believe you did this for me.”

  He looks into my eyes. “Sometimes wishes do come true.” In response I smile and kiss him earnestly. “We have an hour until our couples’ massage,” he says.

  “I can think of a great way to spend it,” I reply, leading him toward the bed.

  After our massages, Jake asks me what I want to do. “I don’t know. I’d planne
d on going shopping.”

  “OK. Let’s go shopping.”

  “Really?”

  “Really. Who are we going to run into on a Thursday afternoon? Just tell me where you want to go.”

  “I don’t care where we go, as long as we’re together.”

  “How about we head up Michigan Avenue since it’s a few blocks from here? But before that, I thought we’d have lunch.”

  Jake takes my hand and leads me to the dining room. He removes the covers from the plates and reveals my favorite foods: a Wildfire chopped salad, stuffed mushrooms and rigatoni alla vodka from Carmine’s, and a slice of Portillo’s chocolate cake for dessert. I’m overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness.

  “When did you get all this?”

  “I have my ways.”

  “Thank you. You spoil me.”

  We eat lunch then spend the afternoon shopping on Michigan Avenue. I take Jake’s hand as we stroll and bask in being able to act like a normal couple here at home. “Aren’t you going to buy anything?” he asks me.

  “I don’t know. I was just enjoying your company.”

  “Well, you have to get something.”

  “Fine. Let’s look at the shoe department at Bloomingdale’s.”

  Once we’re there, I find a pair of tall black motorcycle boots that I love. I model them for Jake and he approves. “There,” I say with a smile. “I’ve bought something.”

  “Good. Now let’s go back to the hotel so I can give you your gift.

  “Jake, you’re here, which is a gift in itself. Plus you already got me a night at the suite and the massage.”

  “I know—this was just a small thing I wanted to do.”

  On the way out, we pass through the men’s department, and a striped blue tie catches my eye. “This would look great on you,” I say, holding it up to Jake. “It brings out the blue in your eyes. Let me buy it for you.” He’s about to protest, but I cut him off. “Please, you never let me buy you anything. It would make me happy.”

  He regards me for a moment then agrees. “If it’ll make you happy, how can I say no?”