Bill walked out the office still angry with another confrontation with 'Bloody Dr. Lucien Blake'. He had just about all he could stand from that pompous ass. Sure he knew his temper had got the best of him again, but he had more to offer than just his fists. He grew up in this town fighting and scraping to gain an inch. Everyone in town knew of Bill's reputation, but very few actually knew Bill.
Bill started towards the pub. He just wanted to drown his sorrows and anger in a few bottles of whatever his wallet could afford. Just as Bill rounded the corner he bumped into Jean Blake. Bill could never understand why such a beautiful gal with a heart of gold would fall for such a louse.
"Good afternoon, Bill," she smiled.
"Good afternoon to you, Mrs. Blake," he grumbled back.
"Bill have you and Lucien been at it again?" she sighed.
A silent but reluctant nod in reply.
"Come, sit with me a moment. I would like to have a word before you enter the pub," Jean touched his elbow.
So he followed her to the nearest bench to sit with her.
Jean proceeded to remind Bill that losing one's temper is not the answer for all life's endeavors.
"Bill, I have known you most of my life and I know you are smarter than that. I don't want you to lose your way because Lucien pokes and prods you. Lucien is aware that you have intelligence and we have spoken about this matter. Bill, if you want the respect of your peers than you must keep that temper of yours undercover until it is needed. Talk to Lucien he may very well have some ideas to help you work through this very issue".
Bill looked her in the eyes and nodded his head once again in reply.
"I know Mrs. Blake, but I don't want to look daft and foolish".
"Bill, not everyone in the world is against you, so, push your pride aside and ask for assistance, you won't look, as you put it, daft and foolish."
They sat on the bench for more than an hour. Eventually Bill was invited for dinner. "See you tonight five thirty sharp Mr. Hobart". Bill waved goodbye and headed home to his flat. The closer the time for dinner approached the more nervous Bill became. He told himself to quit dawdling about and get on with it. He stood nervously at the Blake's front door praying it was Jean whom opened the door. When he heard the unmistakable thud of the Doctor headed his way.
"Good evening Bill" Blake bellowed.
"Good evening there Doc" replied Bill.
"Oh do come in Bill dinner is almost ready" smiled Jean.