It's Time to Live
Sarah leaned closer to the mirror, studying her makeup and touching up where needed. There was a buzz of excitement in the air around her. They were finally going to have their second date. Sort of a third date, but since the others were considered two first dates, this became the second date by default. She grinned at her reflection as the very Chuck-like thoughts bounced around her brain. Even more surprising, Chuck was going to cook for her. No one had ever cooked for her. Once upon a time, Sarah might've been unsettled by the foreign presence that had taken up residence in her heart. Today, she was able to see the truth, and knew it meant she was one step closer to becoming a whole person.
Stepping back, she twirled before the mirror for a final check. A giggle of girlish delight parted her lips and escaped into the room. The outfit was casual but still stylish. Of course, Chuck would declare her beautiful in a dress made of sack cloth. Sometimes, she wondered what he actually saw when he looked at her. Deep down, she held out hope that one day she could see herself in that same light. To her own eyes, she appeared tarnished and tattered at the edges from the life she'd led.
She walked to the living area of her hotel room and looked at the clock. There was still plenty of time before she had to go. Her gaze was drawn to the photograph on the nightstand. Approaching, Sarah picked it up and let the memories of that Halloween night fill her vision. It had been her idea that they have a real photo together. Something so totally taboo in her line of work, she knew her bosses would have a fit should they find out. Another sign that she was headed into some very new territory.
Unfortunately, the next thought was one she'd been trying so hard to avoid. Her mission was over. Soon, they'd be sending her somewhere else. As she rubbed her fingers over his smiling face, Sarah searched for the familiar feeling of anticipation that preceded a new assignment. A new challenge, new location, new people; all things that at one time had given her a thrill. The job never felt like a job until now. Dropping heavily to a seat on the bed, she returned the photo to it's place and stared out the window. Inspiration came to her as she studied the clouds. Who said she had to leave right away.
Her laptop was nearby. She opened it up and searched for a particular document. The fact it was so difficult to find brought another prick of sadness with it. How did it get so bad that she struggled to locate a simple vacation request form. The last time was with Bryce, already feeling like a lifetime ago. Maybe it wasn't the smart move, but Sarah knew she wasn't ready to disappear. Throwing caution to the wind, she put in for the full amount, every day she'd accrued. This was to be her chance to find out if there were other things worth fighting for that didn't involve national security. Tapping send, a great weight lifted from her shoulders.
With the request winging it's way through the internet to an in-box somewhere in DC, Sarah took one more look at Chuck. The memory of their almost kiss just days before reddened her cheeks and set her heart to fluttering. In for a penny, in for a pound. She started digging through her drawers, it was in here somewhere. A few months back, Sarah had been out killing time and ended up shopping to her own great surprise. Even more shocking, she bought something. Why? That was a question she had no answer for at the time. Now though, that little red negligee was perfect for her plans. There it was. She pulled it out and held it up, lace and straps and not much else. And, she knew she looked damn good in red.
Plan fully formed, Sarah quickly took action. The lingerie, her toothbrush and a few other essentials were soon tucked away in her purse. She caught her reflection and had to stop for a moment. Maybe she wasn't quite so tattered after all. Time heals all wounds they say. She was pretty sure that the person you spend that time with made the real difference. As she walked out the door, another phrase swirled around in her head. Today is the first day of the rest of your life, Sarah Walker.