My wife, Cay, decided to take a month long trip with some friends to Africa to take part in a camera safari. I had no interest in going, but I encouraged her to go. She set about finding some friends to accompany her and the plans were set.
I was surprised that one of her friends in particular, Ann, chose not to go. I thought she'd be the first to sign on. Ann is a fifty year old blond with the body of a thirty year old. She's kept fit by a pretty rigorous fitness routine. And I've always enjoyed when she's around because she usually wears workout clothes, tight fitting yoga tops and pants. We flirt and when Ann is not around my wife accuses me of having a secret crush on her. I laugh it off and try to keep my wife happy with the fact I'm just looking. But she's absolutely right, I totally have a crush on Ann.
The departure day arrived and I dropped my wife at the airport. We said our goodbyes and she was gone. But before she left she said something that I really didn't understand.
"I told Ann that if she needed anything to call you. She said she might take me up on my offer."
I didn't attach much significance to what she said so I simply said, "Okay."
On my way home I mulled over what she said. Was it an innocent comment or should I plan on Ann showing up and asking for help with something I didn't know about?
Over the past year, Ann had trouble at home with an increasingly domineering husband that bordered on the abusive. After a particularly aggressive argument they had split. He wanted to reconcile, but she was done with him and moved on with her life. With her looks, intelligence and personality I could easily see men lining up to date her.
After several days had gone by I decided to check on Ann, just to see if she needed anything. I picked up my phone and called her.
"Hello?"
"Hi Ann. I thought I'd check on you. How are you doing?"
"What a pleasant surprise. I'm okay."
She didn't sound okay, so I pressed the issue.
"You sound a little down, what's up?"
"Really, I'm good. Just getting used to being on my own. My ex was an ass, but I was grounded. Now everything is in flux."
"Are you seeing anyone?"
"Gawd, no. Most of the guys that have asked me out are no improvement on my ex, so I'm laying low. What are you up to? Youo house must be quiet. I was actually thinking of giving you a call."
"Then I'm glad I called you. How about having dinner with me? I've been craving a good steak and I know you like Flemings."
"That sounds really nice."
"Great, how about tomorrow night. We can go early and catch their special."
We agreed I would pick her up at 6:00 p.m., and have an early dinner.
I was excited. It felt like I was going on a first date. Suddenly my phone rang and when I answered it was my wife.