CHAPTER 12

Just because we didn’t work out as a couple doesn’t mean we couldn’t work together, right?

I thought about it again, the last time we met, replying the flash memory I had when I walked out of our apartment door. We said goodbye and shared hug, there was no anger. So I guess we’re good.

When I opened the door, I saw our eyes met. He stand immediately with a grin on his face. Sandy blonde hair, piercing eyes, charming smile; I’d been hit with a wave of nostalgia all over again. I couldn’t help but returned the smile.

“Hey there, stranger,”  He said, offering me his hand as he crossed to me.

“Henry!” I gasped, but recovered quickly from the sparkle he had around him. “You look great!” we hugged.

“Yeah, you too Tao.” He said as we pulled away. “So, how’s life? Have you consider about we’re getting back together?”

I didn’t miss the playful eyebrows when he said that. Uuh what?

Surprised of the sudden questions, I found my mouth goes dry. Like seriously? I really don't know how to answer that kind of question in this situation. All I have prepared was the contract and such.

“I'm just kidding, Tao,” He laughed. “Look, I know I was such a back then. And I even am bombarding you with texts about getting back together. But I'm over it now. I'm here pure for work. You don't have to be that surprised.”

I didn’t remember Henry was a person who easily throw a joke to someone..

“......Right,” I snap back and clear my throat, “Why don't we just sit and begin?”

“Sure,” He smiled and we sat down.

In the end we sat there talking about all the stuff we need to be discussed. Neither I nor him are talking about personal matter. Heck I don't wanna wasting my time here. Funny that I found him more matured, not that say he weren’t back then. But I guess something change in him.

Our meeting was not as bad as I thought it will be. Also, I kind of proud of myself for not being a chicken in front of him. Suho hyung right, this is a huge jump for me. I guess I should thank Henry for trusting me to handle this project, and Suho hyung too. If he chooses to asking me first, I would had a second thought for this.

“Why did you choose me for this project, Henry? I hope its not because of personal matter,”

“Oh no. Of course not. Don't get me wrong, we’ve been working together and I know you’re potential. I know you’re ready to take this. I know they have so many people out there who have more experience and all, but I have so much faith in you. So yeah, don't let this chance slip.” He said as he standing up.

“This is a long term project and will take so much time, so I hope we can work this out. Despite we had memories.” He offers me his hand to shake.

I smiled, feeling happy with his reason. I don't have so much to object, in fact, he did notice my hard work. So I guess I’ll be working under him for this. “Yes, I’ll be under your care, sir.”

“Please, drop the ‘sir’. I don't want any formalities between us.”

A huge smile formed in my face, “That’s reminds me, this new apartment was a joined company project right?”

“Yes, I cannot afford to build an apartment on my own.”

“Then does your partner know you will choose me as the interior designer? I mean, I never handle this kind of project by own. How can you convince them?”

“I sent them your portfolio and Suho hyung recommended you, too. They were impressed in your taste. So you better don't let the down.”

A blush crept in my face. “I will not,”

“And umm, since we’re gonna work together, do you.. uhh, do you want to grab some drink? Just as a friend. Nothing more.”

“Yeah sure!”

“Great! I’ll pick you up at seven.” He smiled. Before we bid goodbye, Suho hyung appear from nowhere.

“What at seven?” He asked.

I and Henry look at each other and giggling, “We’re going for a drinks to get caught up, hyung.”

Then his eyes went wide and mouth slight open. I know, the progress between me and henry escalated pretty quickly. Two hours ago I was pretty shocked to find out who is my new client and Suho hyung kept apologizing, but now he saw me having a date – okay maybe not a date—with my ex.

~

I stood in front of the mirror, fluffing my hair and checking my appearance for the second time. The rest of workday had gone pretty quickly, and now I found myself at home getting ready for tonight. We’d agree to just drinks, very casual, although I was leaving the option open for dinner. But skinny jeans, black shirt and grey leather jacket was as fancy as I was gonna get.

The time I’d spent with Henry this afternoon at the office was pleasant, and when he ask for drinks I agreed instantly. I was anxious to learn what he’d been up to, as well as make sure we’d be able to work together, and the idea of work with someone I’d once been so close to felt good to me actually. It felt mature. Closure? Not sure what to call it, but seemed like the natural thing to do.

He was picking me at seven, and I planned to meet him outside. Oh wait, I hope its okay to let him know where I lived now..

A glance at the clock told me it was time to get going. I bid goodbye to Boo, who currently eyeing me with a tongue stick out. I know he wants snack, but no. I still pissed at him because of his behavior towards Kris the other day. But, yeah, I love him nonetheless.

Closing the door behind me, I run straight to Kris, who was in front of my door. A grin spread across his handsome face. As I saw his face, the memory of him the other day replied automatically in my head. The one when he picks my cheek. I repeat, PECK my cheek. I swear to God, my heart beating faster than usual.

“You’re blushing,” He smirked.

“Oh, you are officially my stalker now? I'm not making you an apple pie, mister! I hope you have something to eat tonight.” I warned him playfully, ignoring the statement of me blushing.

“I know, I know. I'm here on official business.” He laughed, throwing his hands in the air.

I chuckled, “You sure? But oh well, walk with me?” I asked, heading towards the stairs.\

“I'm going out as well. Going to rent a movie,” he explained as we started down,

“What? People still rent movies?” I asked, completely lost. How come people still rent movies in 2014?

“Yes, people still rent movies.”

“And you are one of them.. I'm impressed.”

“Hey, nothing wrong with renting some movies.” He grinned and continue, “Just for that you’re gonna have to watch whatever I pick out.” He replied, rising an eyebrow.

“Tonight?”

“Hell, I would love too! I was coming over to see if you wanted to hang out. I owe you dinner from the other night, and I got an urge to watch something spooky...”

I couldn’t help but smiled then I clear my throat, “Last time someone asked me to watch a movie at home, it was a code ‘let’s make out on the couch’. Am I safe with you?”

He seemed to think a bit while I'm cursing myself for my boldness. It was like I'm giving him a hint to ‘I will watching a movie with you if only we can had a one session of make out on the couch’. Oh God help me!

“Uuuh,” He’s scratching his cheek, “We’ve got that truce, remember? I'm not going to do anything funny. So, tonight?”

“I wish I could, but I have plants tonight. Tomorrow night, then?” we rounded the last stair and entered the entryway.

“Aww too bad. But okay, fine with me. Come on over after work. I'm making you dinner and gotta pick the movie. Least I can do for my cute little panda next door.” He smirked, and I punched him in the arm.

“Oh my God, stop calling me that! Otherwise I won’t making you dessert. And I'm not little!” I said, batting my eyelashes like a fool.

“Dessert?” He stopped walking, holding the door hangs open on his hand.

“Mmm-mmm. I could make something sweet or another apple pie. Any request?” I asked as I scanning the street for Henry.

“Can you make uhh something with Oreo?” He said, eyes a