Mrs. Long couldn't believe what was happening. What is he doing? Does he really think that this little show is going to spark my interest? I can't believe he would put on such an act in front of my spouse...standing there with that look on his face, as if nothing else is the world matters but what's in front of him. His confidence is attractive...but this is so inappropriate...but why am I smiling?
Simultaneously, Thomas began thinking...What are you doing? Didn't think I'd do it...but I did...I mean I had to right? He just can't walk in and I not acknowledge him? That would be rude. Or is this rude? SHE's married to him...I...have to remember that...but I know what I want and I'm not going to let anything else get in the way of my dreams...I'll never let an opportunity slip away from me again! So...here I am...creating an unwanted threesome. I can't imagine any of those fools knowing what's really going on. Jennifer's probably wondering how she can get Mrs. Long out of the way and she become the meat in this sandwich. My arm's getting tired. Is he not going to shake my hand? Can he not see my effort. I need her to see what I'm willing to do...I need him to see...that I'm fearless. But if he doesn't...I'll make her see, then, she'll make him see me...
What is he doing? This has to be one sick joke... First the boldness on the phone...not this? What's he playing at...I mean really?! By acting like this, does he really think this will get him anywhere? At most, it'll get him an audience with my alter ego and there won't be any letting up...but maybe that's what he wants...that's exactly what he wants...attention. Positive or negative...it's my attention. And he wants it. Well...he's got it...and everyone else's too! This handshake better be all he's hoped and dreamed because his proximity to my family is about to increase dramatically if this doesn't go well...Mr. Long thought.
"Hi, I'm Thomas...Thomas Aiken, by the way. I apologize for my abrupt nature but like I eluded to earlier, your wife is a special woman. I just had to come over and shake the hand of the man who takes care of her."
Reaching out his hand, Mr. Long responded, "Yes, my wife is indeed...one-of-a-kind. I'm not sure why God chose me to be with her but I'm thankful everyday to have a partner like her." Looking over at his wife, Mr. Long tightened his grip a little just before releasing Thomas's hand and taking the hand of his wife. "Sweetheart, I must be going. We have a board meeting this morning...a possible merger is in the works. I'll see you tonight!"
While pulling her husband to her for a farewell hug, Mrs. Long exhaled as she embraced him, "Thank you so much for being you! I'll have something special for you tonight!"
Tommy, seeing the embrace ending, quickly interjected, "It was nice meeting you Mr. Long. I hope this will not be the last time we see you!"
"Well, this world is not that big of a place. Sooner or later our paths may cross again."
"Yes sir. I'm an aspiring businessman so anytime you'd like to divulge some secrets to a young man like me, don't hesitate. Here's my card."
"You know what Tomlin..."
"Thomas sir...well, everyone calls me Tommy."
"Oh okay, Thomas...I'm sure my wife has your information. I'll be sure to get your information from her if there's anything I'd like to share with you." Thoughts raced through Mr. Long's mind...He has completely lost his mind! Offering his card?! Really?! This is when the sexiness of confidence meets the bold, the rude and the certifiably insane! This is definitely not the time or place for this...whatever he thinks THIS is. Pushing up in front of my spouse...he's got some nerve! And on date night...which was made obvious to avoid such things!
Mrs. Long was beside herself with emotion. Oh my God! Did he not hear us talking about our date night tonight? Now, I'm sure we'll be talking about this mess instead of enjoying our evening. He's good...I have to give it to him. This game he's playing...he must be a professional...or a complete nut!
"Not a problem. Just wanted to get in your ear. Close mouths don't get fed right?"
Okay, got his and her attention now. I've established my presence and my willingness to go the extra mile. Whether she thinks I'm rude or whether he thinks I'm crazy, they're both thinking about one thing...not date night...but me...Tommy...no wait...Thomas...Thomas Aiken...the rising star...
