The morning after rejecting Michael,felt like a scene from a rom-com. My stomach was a knot of anxiety, my phone felt like a ticking time bomb, and the air itself seemed to buzz with awkward anticipation.
I'd been polite, firm, and clear, but the rejection had felt like a punch to the gut. I'd seen the flicker of hurt in his eyes, the way his smile faltered, and I knew I'd made him feel small. It wasn't a feeling I relished.
My usual morning routine – a quick shower, a strong coffee, and a scroll through social media – felt more like a chore. I kept checking my phone, hoping for a text, any kind of communication from Mark. But there was nothing.
At work, the restaurant felt like a stage, and I was the lead actress in a play I hadn't written. My colleagues, bless their hearts, were all too eager to offer their opinions.
"Did you see Michael yesterday?" One of the chef asked, her voice dripping with curiosity.
"He was at the coffee shop," added one, her eyes wide with gossip. "He looked…well, let's just say he didn't look happy."
"Oh," I said, trying to sound nonchalant. "He must have had a rough day."
But the truth was, I felt like I was walking on eggshells. I was afraid of bumping into Michael, afraid of his reaction, afraid of the awkwardness that hung in the air between us.
LATER THAT DAY
I felt nervous all day long even though Michael and I agreed to be friends his actions speak differently than what he asked for which made me uncomfortable and guilty for what I did to him.
It's already 5:00 p. m so I planned on leaving but got stopped by Michael.
"Hey?". He said as he scratches the back of his head. "Did I make you feel uncomfortable? I'm sorry for ignoring you all day and for doing things that is totally the opposite of being like friends that I told you I wanted us to be".
My heart skipped a beat. I looked at him, surprised by his sincerity.
"It's okay," I said, my voice softer than I intended. "I just…I'm a bit shock."
He nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "I get it. I just wanted to say that I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable."
We stood there for a moment, the awkwardness dissipating. The tension that had been building all day suddenly felt lighter.
"I'm glad we could talk," I said, offering a small smile.
"Me too," he replied. "See you around."
As Michael walked away, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. The day, which had started with a knot of anxiety, ended with a sense of calm.Who wouldn't want to have a peaceful workplace right? Also I realized that sometimes, the most important thing is to be honest with yourself and with others, even if it means hurting someone's feelings. And sometimes, even after a rejection, there's still room for respect and understanding.