A date

Over the next few weeks, Hazel and Gerald's interactions became more cordial. They would greet each other in the hallway and exchange pleasantries, but they wouldn't linger too long in each other's company. Hazel could see that Gerald was trying to keep his distance from her, and it made her feel more comfortable around him.

One day, as Hazel was leaving the office, she realized that it was raining outside. She didn't have an umbrella, and she didn't want to get wet. As she was standing in the doorway, trying to decide what to do, she saw Gerald walking towards her.

"Hey, Hazel. Do you need an umbrella?" Gerald asked, holding out his own umbrella.

Hazel was taken aback by Gerald's offer. She didn't know what to say or how to react.

"Uh, thank you, sir. That's very kind of you," Hazel replied, feeling a bit flustered.

Gerald smiled, feeling a sense of satisfaction. He knew that he couldn't be with Hazel in the way that he wanted, but he also knew that he could stil