Chapter 11
Catherine could not stop smiling though she knew she might get the attention of other people. Alexandra was standing at the door wearing the same turtleneck sweater, black leather jacket and holding a helmet. Catherine noticed her being a little bit tanned. She still looked beautiful.
Professor Walters was happy no less than Catherine. He stood up and greeted Alexandra. Everyone was staring at her. Once Walters sat down and started the meeting, Catherine saw Alexandra to choose a sit at the far corner of the room, away from everyone else. She sat down and put her helmet on her knees. Then she looked up and caught Catherine's sight on herself. They smiled at each other.
The meeting was long and Catherine wanted it to end as quickly as possible, so she could talk to Alexandra. Nevertheless, as it happens in such situations, time almost stopped, and not in a good way.
After an hour and a half, Walters stood up. Thanked everyone and asked Alexandra aloud:
-Professor Slonim, would you like to add something? You were quiet today.
Alexandra looked unhappy. Apparently, she did not want to talk in front all these people. She stood up and said with a calm and shy tone of voice.
-First of all, I would like to thank you, Professor Walters, for letting me join your department. Secondly, I hope this semester will be great for all of the students, and us of course. At last, I am happy to be here and right now I will make myself busy to warm up to your department, and if I come up with an idea, I will certainly share it with you all.
Everyone around nodded, as they are happy with everything she said.
People did not leave immediately. They stayed a little bit longer to greet Alexandra and introduce themselves to her. Catherine waited outside, by the door. When almost everyone left, she saw a tall and dark figure leaving the room. Catherine called behind her.
-Nice tan.
Alexandra turned with a foxy smile.
-I think this way it is better. Otherwise, I looked like a vampire.
-You look great in whatever way you are.
Catherine blurted out. She immediately blushed realizing she should not have said that. Probably, Alexandra understood it. She did not say anything but smiled at her in an adorable manner.
-How was your vacation?
-Nice. Calm and relaxing. The way I like it. How was your trip?
-Great. I was in solitude by the beach. Sun was bright and shiny. Sea was warm and relaxing. Plus, I had a book to read. More than enough for me.
-Was it in Italy or France?
-Sicily, Italy.
-You did not visit France then.
-I did. I had to… I mean, I really wanted to.
Catherine witnessed a sudden change in Alexandra's demeanor. Suddenly, she became sad and looked like she wanted to end the conversation. Thinking that her trip to France was not so pleasant, she decided to change the subject.
- While you were on your trip, I decided to learn more about you.
Alexandra smiled cunningly before replying:
- Don't you think you should have done it before sleeping with me?
Catherine looked right into her eyes and rolled her eyes as if she is bored. Then she laughed and Alexandra joined her.
- Though I think jokes of yours are immature, this one was a good one. What I wanted to say was, I bought your book. Quite an interesting material.
-You should not have done it. I could give you one. You only needed to mention.
-It is not a big deal. Besides, I will need you to sign it.
Catherine smiled at Alexandra. Alexandra smiled back, saying: "With a pleasure".
One they were on parking slot, Catherine looked at the only bike nearby.
-Familiar bike.
Alexandra smiled.
-I can give you a ride sometime. If only you wish.
-No, thanks. I am too much of a coward for it.
-You never try, you never know.
Catherine smiled and said she is glad to see her again. They finalized their talk and parted ways. Catherine in her car looked at the rare mirror the same way she did the first day they met. Alexandra was sitting on her bike and wearing her helmet. Then, suddenly, she turned back and looked at Catherine's car. Catherine waited for a few seconds and then turned on the engine and moved the car.