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It had been complete chance that he had found her blog. Steve had not gone looking for it, but when he found it after following her review on a shooting forum, he couldn’t really pull himself away from reading it. In the whole of the World Wide Web, he had stumbled upon the blog of the woman he not only worked with but also had been developing a crush on. She hadn’t put her full name on it or given any specific details about her work, but if you knew Pippa Coulson in person, there was no doubt this was her blog.
It seemed a little like cheating, reading her thoughts without her knowing. However, his therapist had explained blogging was something people did now. One could write their thoughts and opinions for others to read, and the text was just there and available. Steve had even started his own blog upon this therapist’s insistence, but he mainly just posted sketches and random thoughts. So he justified finally that reading her blog was more like reconnaissance and less like an invasion of privacy.
It was such a delight when she would update with a story about her day or something she liked. People even sent her questions, and she would give them such good advice. He had the idea and thought on it for about ten days. When it finally kept him awake in the middle of the night, he decided just to go ahead and ask her opinion on the matter.
Ms. C, what do you think of seeing someone you work with? There's this woman at my job that I have taken a shine to, and I've never done anything like this before, but where I'm from it was common for a guy to ask a working girl out but here it seems different, and I'm nervous of messing it up cause I think she's just swell. -Anonymous
He sent the message and then waited for half an hour, refreshing the page compulsively. When he realized she most likely wasn’t on so late at night, he forced himself to turn off his laptop and go to bed. The next morning he saw she had replied.
Anon- I have this strict, very very strict policy about dating someone you work with. Like, never, it’s a really bad idea and it can only bring problems. This has been my number one rule since I started my job.
Steve let out a sigh. At least hearing her thoughts on the matter this way was better than in person. He didn’t have to hide his disappointment or make things awkward between the two of them. Just as he was about to go for a run to clear his mind and try to get her out of his thoughts, he saw there was another paragraph a few lines down the screen.
… but rules are made to be broken and I can’t say I have never had my moments of weakness. So, honestly, if even the cold Ms. C has already fallen for someone from work, you should give it a try.
You seem respectful and like you are a good person. Don’t hesitate! What’s the worst that could happen? She’d say ‘no?’ Well, no need to be ashamed. These things happen, and you shouldn’t apologize for finding people attractive, dear. Go ahead, ask her out! And if she refuses then it will be her loss.
Steve almost jumped out of his seat he was so excited. The first objective was achieved: she wouldn’t hate his asking her out for dinner because they worked together. If she rejected him, it would be because of some other reason. Steve’s excitement waned at that thought, and he quickly typed a response.
Ms. C, thank you for your encouragement. I try to be a good man, and I’m not sure I always am. But, when I see her in the hallway, I get the feeling like I want to be a better man… for her. I just don’t have a lot of practice talking to pretty women and get all flustered. But, I’m going to try to buck up my courage and go for it.
He thought for a moment about how she would never know that he had asked this, so he could be completely honest and open with his concern.
Regarding the worst that could happen? Well, she’s quite the spitfire and could deck me, but honestly, I think her saying ‘no’ would hurt more.
He clicked “send” before he could overthink what he had written. His heart was beating so fast he felt like he was fourteen again. He glanced through a few news sites not really able to read them and then after a few minutes saw that she had already responded to his message.
You sound like a gem darling, and if she can’t see that then she’s probably not the one for you. But if you tell her what you told me, there’s no way she can refuse.
You seem not to be really used to talking to women. I am guessing you’re from another country or culture so just know that in the US the laws against sexual harassment at work are strict; it’s better to be appropriate when you talk to a woman. I honestly don’t think it would apply to you though. As long as you’re polite, there’s nothing wrong about asking a colleague out.
She could… deck you? Wow, what kind of woman would…yeah okay, I’m that kind of woman, too! But we usually don’t do that for bad reasons. Be brave my dear, and come back later to tell me what happened; I love romantic stories!
Steve did jump out of his chair this time and did a small little victory dance. He then regained his composure and started to strategize. Pulling out his phone, Steve dialed Clint’s number.
“Hey Clint... oh sorry it’s so early, but would you be up for meeting me at Killkenny’s tonight? I need your advice.”