Chapter 34

My relationship with Lorraine was blossoming. "Concert next weekend?" I texted. "Want to go?"

"I'd love to," she replied instantly.

"Just us?" I texted back, taking a breath. "Yes, if you don't mind."

"Not at all. Looking forward to it."

The week flew by. Work felt less tedious, and even reading with Jonas brought a smile. Finally, the weekend arrived. I donned a suit I hadn't worn in ages and headed to the concert hall.

Seeing Lorraine, time seemed to stop. She wore a stunning black dress; sophisticated and beautiful.

"You made it!" she smiled, approaching me.

"Lorraine, you look breathtaking," I said sincerely.

Her cheeks flushed. "Thank you. You look very handsome yourself."

The concert was magnificent, but my gaze kept drifting to Lorraine. We exchanged glances, a comfortable chemistry warming me.

Afterwards, we went to a nearby coffee shop. Under the soft lights, we talked – about work, life, the past, the future. I opened up about things I'd never shared before, and Lorraine listened intently, offering advice and encouragement.

"I'm grateful you trust me," she said softly.

Warmth spread through me as I looked into her sincere eyes. The soft lighting softened her features, making her seem even more delicate.

"Lorraine," I said, sipping my coffee, "I should be thanking you. Without your support, I'd still be stuck."

She smiled, shaking her head. "Everyone needs time to heal. What matters is you've moved forward."

We shared a smile, then my phone buzzed. Hayden was calling.

"Sorry," I apologized to Lorraine, answering. "Hello, Hayden."

"Cole, where are you? Just finished a meeting, wanted to talk."

I hesitated, glancing at Lorraine. "I'm at the West End coffee shop, with Lorraine."

A pause. "Oh? Perfect. I'm nearby; I'll swing by."

I awkwardly explained to Lorraine, "Hayden's coming."

She chuckled. "That's fine. He's a friend."

Soon, Hayden walked in, grinning. "Cole, Lorraine! Nice to see you two getting along so well."

I stood. "Hayden, have a seat. Want a drink?"

He waved his hand. "No, just wanted to say hi."