Past Perfect

Photo: Hakan Celebi

I sense a come-back theme in the air. People from the past are making their way back into my life.

Vera for example, a holiday 4-some playmate, with whom I lost touch a year ago, turns up unexpectedly at my firm’s event.
I see her standing at the conference room’s door, minutes before I am to deliver a presentation. Our eyes meet. I take a deep breath and walk slowly towards her. I take her by the arm and discreetly lead her aside.

‘What are you doing here?’ I whisper.

‘I was going to ask you the same question’ she answers looking confused but happy to see me.

Vera explains quietly that she’s got through the graduate recruiting programme, having finished a demanding Masters at Imperial. She’s only just noticed my name on the event’s invitation.

I realise I’m still holding her by the arm. I let go.

She looks slender. Her golden hair is even longer now, making her look attractive in a grown-up sort of way. There is a wave of new confidence in her mannerism. It suits her.

‘Catch up afterwards?’ she asks meekly and touches my hand.

I glance at her face to guess if she’s just being friendly. I will need to tell her about Adam-the-Boss, and most importantly, that I’ve stopped experimenting with women.
‘Sure Vera. But now wish me luck’ I smile and make my way to the podium.