THE CALLING

Edgar stared at the ceiling. Her fingers twitched. He repeatedly wanted to speak but couldn't. His forehead furrowed. He had trouble starting a conversation. Being alone with a girl who looked so much like Balqis made Edgar nervous. The man closed his eyes for a moment. His thumb touched the wedding ring around his ring finger.

"So... are you married?" asked Naia.

Edgar opened his eyes. He looked at Naia. He inhaled for a moment before finally opening his mouth. "Yes."

"Why didn't you bring your wife here?"

"She... had some business in Singapore."

"I see. ...." Naia nodded her head. Her fingers tapped on the notebook she was carrying.

Edgar exhaled. The elevator ride was short but felt long when he was with Naia. She repeatedly looked at the numeric display above the elevator doors. Although the screen showed the numbers quickly, somehow, the numbers never stopped, and the elevator door opened.

"Um... why did Ms. Naia recommend me? Looks like we're ...."

"Just call me Naia."

"Sorry?"