When Love is Unfinished. Nicole Cooke

Jimmy liked Ashley; she reminded him of his daughter Amanda, who died in a house fire many years ago. He would often make the mistake and called Ashley Amanda. My name’s Ashley, she would chuckle, thinking that he just couldn’t remember her name.

      Ashley quietly walked in the conference room hoping not to interrupt or make a scene. “Ashley” so glad you can join us! Judy said making it noticeable that she was late. Gosh that girl is gonna make me stab her… Ashley said to herself. Yes Ash, I was just going over with everyone that we have three major projects coming up and we may have to work a little late some nights, Ms. Richmond said. Also our annual Halloween family fun feast is coming up. And theme this year is “Remember the past and persevering the future.” So come dressed in your best seventies outfit and dress your kids up too and lets come out and have a good time, I already contacted the caterers and have a budget set for one hundred people. So, sign the list and how many you’re bringing, just in case I have to add to the number. Ashley felt Derrick staring at her, she looked over at him and gave a small quick smile and turned her attention back to Ms. Richmond. We are gonna to have karaoke and games this year, so I’m looking forward to a great time! If there’s no other questions or comments, this meeting is over. Have a productive day. Slowly everyone got up and exited the room. Ashley! Derrick said approaching her, how are you feeling? I’m doin’. HE SAID ASHLEY NOT JUDY! WHY ARE YOU ALL OVER HERE? Ashley yelled. Folks that were left in the room started snickering and laughing at Judy. Judy just smacked her teeth and said ain’t nobody worrying about you, then left feeling defeated. Look Ashley I’m sorry about Saturday I really didn’t mean for you to get upset, Derrick I’m sorry for making you leave. I’m just really sensitive about that subject. Anyway let get to work we have a lot to cover today. For the reminder of the day the two of them worked on their project diligently. It’s five and you two are still here Ms. Richmond walked past and stated, yes we’re just making sure everything is correct before we send it off to the client tomorrow. Okay said Ms. Richmond, well I think everyone is gone for the day, Ashley will you do me a favor and make sure everything is locked up and set the alarm for me? Yes ma’am, Ashley responded. Thanks, good night guys. For the next two hour the two worked and completed the project. Thanks for staying with me and helping me finish this project. Oh it’s no problem, Ashley stated plus you came to my rescue Friday so it’s the least I could do. Aw, you didn’t have to repay me for that. I just wanted to make sure you were okay. Aw, you’re a sweetheart she said patting him on his shoulder. He turned and was really close to her face, the chemistry between the two of them was so heavy, they were so close he could feel her breathe as she was talking… Ashley? He said softly. Yes, she replied. Let me lov… Bump, bump, boom! They both jumped, you heard that? Ashley ask, yeah it sounds like its coming from the hallway. They both tipped toed to the hallway. It’s coming for the utility closet. Ashley grabbed a stapler. Ash what are you gonna do with that staple them to death Derrick whispered. “Just open the door!” she whispered. Derrick snatched open the door and there they was Jimmy and Judy f**king like animals. Mr. Jimmy had her bent over a box of paper towels going to town. Judith screamed, what are y’all still doing here! Derrick and Ashley burst out laughing and slammed the door back! They laughed so hard tears were falling from their eyes. Come on let’s get out of here Derrick said. They walk past the utility closet and knocked on the door; Judy was to embarrass to come out. Derrick yell through the door, Mr. Jimmy? When you finish can you lock up and set the alarm?” “Will do”. Mr. Jimmy mumbled through the door. Derrick and Ashley walked out the door laughing their butts off. She better not ever say anything else to me or I’ma put her on Blast! Ashley laughed. Hey you want to go get some dinner Derrick suggest…my treat? He smiled, Ashley took a deep breath and said nah I’ma go head on home my stomach is not completely okay, I’ma just finish off the broth you left me, oh and thanks for the flowers. Okay Derrick said disappointedly. They both walked down the walkway and side their goodbyes. Ashley turned to see him place his helmet on and climb on his motorcycle. She dropped her head and slowly got in her car.