My Boss Announced My Early Retirement, Then Everyone’s Faces Went White
Our skills were evenly matched, leading to wins and losses for both of us. Mr. Harrison seems to enjoy this aspect of the game.
“Like in business golf, it’s no fun if you go easy on me,”
he said.
“That’s true. I completely understand,”
I said.
Mr. Harrison became silent for a while. Just when I thought he was focusing on the chessboard, he said something unexpected.
“Jack, aren’t you going to get married? You’re at a good age for it,”
he asked.
“I’m a bit embarrassed to say, but I’ve been so caught up in work that I haven’t had a girlfriend. But you’re right, I should start thinking about that aspect of my life,”
I replied.
“I may not have much credibility in giving marriage advice considering how mine turned out, but maybe it’s time you thought about settling down,”
he said.
“Maybe I should start attending mixers then,”
I suggested.
Just then Alice entered the room with a knock.
“Oh, playing chess again? You two always get along so well,”
she said.
“The only one who plays with me is Jack!”
Mr. Harrison said.
Alice casually took a seat next to me, watching our match with interest.
“Jack, teach me chess too. I want to study and beat Dad someday!”
she said.
“That’s a great idea. Playing against me all the time must be boring for Mr. Harrison,”
I said.
Mr. Harrison looked back and forth between me and Alice, grinning.
“How about it? Shall the three of us go out for sushi tonight?”
he asked.
“That sounds lovely! Jack, are you free?”
Alice asked.
“I don’t mind at all. I’d be happy to join,”
I replied.
Lately, it seems we’re spending more time together like this. For me, it’s the most comfortable and pleasant relationship.
“I was just telling Jack it’s about time he thought about getting married. Alice, the same goes for you. Don’t stay single forever. I want to see my grandchildren!”
Mr. Harrison said.
“Well, I do feel a bit rushed thinking about childbirth, but I don’t have anyone in mind. Maybe I should go to mixers!”
Alice said.
Alice saying the same thing made me laugh.
“I was just saying the same thing. Alice, shall we go to a mixer together next time?”
I asked.
“Oh, that would be nice. Make sure there are some handsome guys!”
she teased.
“Maybe it would be quicker if you two got married!”
Mr. Harrison suggested.
Alice and I exchanged glances and laughed.
I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t thought about her in that way, but I felt I still lacked the credentials to ask her out.
Looking at Alice beside me, she seemed to blush with embarrassment. I vaguely thought about asking her out for drinks, just the two of us.
