After polite pleasantries and greeting everyone he thought was important for the company, Noah finally made his way toward Jossy, Clara, and George. The three were slowly dancing near the back of the room, the music soft around them. Noah grabbed a drink, took a deliberate sip, then offered a slightly awkward, "Hi, Jossy."
Her face lit up instantly as she reached out for a hug. George, ever the good friend, nudged Clara and whispered, "Can I talk to you for a second?" He walked away with Clara, giving the two a moment of privacy. Noah shot him a quick glance of gratitude before turning back to Jossy.
"This is a surprise!" he said. "I didn't know you were coming. I would have made arrangements for you."
Jossy laughed. "Don't worry, Noah. Hazel picked me up. I'm staying at her place."
They settled into a private booth, catching up on everything including work, Alpine, LA, and how Noah's parents were doing. Jossy noticed a few female employees glancing repeatedly in their direction. She smiled, teasing, "Most eligible bachelor in LA..I think you're drawing attention. I won't keep you here while you could be mingling with potential girlfriends."
Noah's expression turned serious. "If I were interested in them, I'd be dating, maybe even married by now. I know what and whom I want, Jossy. I think you know that by now."
Feeling bold, Jossy pressed, "And who is that, Noah?"
"You know who," he replied shyly. "Don't push me. I don't want to make you uncomfortable."
"What if I want to be uncomfortable, Noah?" she challenged.
He paused, then smiled. "Okay. Then have a dance with me."
They walked onto the dance floor, moving in sync with the music. For Jossy, this was new, unfamiliar territory, but in his arms, she felt at ease and safe, like she truly belonged here. She liked him. She had realised it during their few conversations on the phone. He was easy to talk to and had become her best friend. Maybe she shouldn't tell Hazel that..she thought as her lips curved into a quick smile. Looking back at the last one and half years since that night he helped her out, Noah had been kind, gentle, patient, supportive, and yet firm. And God! He was handsome.
She stole glances at him and held tighter as they slowly danced to the music.