Page 102 of What I'm Looking For

Checking my watch as the elevator descends, I realize that I’m leaving work before market closing for the first time ever. As I exit the staid old building, I breathe in the air of a perfect late summer afternoon. I need a bike ride along the Charles.

Swaying with the movement of the T on the way home, I give myself a mental pat on the back. I did everything I set out to do this past year. I overcame my fear of speaking in front of a group and moved up in the firm. I succeeded without being male, having family connections, or holding an MBA.

To my surprise, I’ve learned that those accomplishments aren’t as important to me as doing good in the world. I am beyond excited that I’ll be able to use what I learned to make positive change.

As happy as I am about all these things, I can’t seem to let go of the desire to share them with Will.

Back at my apartment, I pick up my mail and drop it, the box and my keys by the front door. I’m itching to get back outside; I’ll deal with that stuff later. Changing into exercise gear—oh, I will miss the free samples from Nike and Adidas—I look around for my shoes. Ah, I left them by the door yesterday morning to dry after a run in the rain.

Just like the last time I saw Will.

Using the hall table for balance as I toe into my shoes, a familiar script catches my eye in the pile of mail. I fan out the envelopes, and my heart skips. Speak of the devil. There’s a letter from Will.

I hesitate for only a moment before opening it. I wrote him over a week ago and haven’t heard back, so I’ve been doing my best to accept that he doesn’t want to try again.

Kate,

Journeys end in lovers meeting.

Like Sebastian from Twelfth Night,

I arrived on an unknown shore

when we met.

Then know, I have little wealth

to lose.

Unlike Proteus in Two Gents,

I thought having little meant

I couldn’t lose.

I was wrong.

You take the sum and substance

that I have: my heart.

For, doubt thou the stars are fire;

Doubt that the sun doth move;

Doubt truth to be a liar;

But never doubt I love.

Hamlet got that one right.

I can no other answer make,

but, thanks, and thanks.

Farewell!

God knows when we shall meet again

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