Subtle Steps in Solitude is a poignant exploration of a young woman's journey through life's mundane routines and unexpected challenges. Priscilla "Cici" Tan is a 28-year-old financial adviser, seemingly content with her structured, solitary existen...
I wasn't sure how to respond to that. The idea that a cat could have such an impact on me seemed absurd, but there was no denying that something had shifted.
"I guess having Remus around helps," I admitted, feeling oddly vulnerable.
Lianne's smile widened. "Animals do that. They give you something else to focus on, something uncomplicated."
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I thought about that for a moment. My life had always been anything but uncomplicated. My job demanded precision, my family demanded perfection, and I demanded nothing less than the best from myself. But Remus didn't care about any of that. He just wanted to be fed, played with, and occasionally, he demanded my lap as a resting spot.
*****
Later that day, after a long meeting with some potential clients, even though I have everything I need in my office, I found myself lingering in the break room, a rare moment of quiet in my otherwise hectic day. I decided I need to be away from my desk for awhile. Matthew Wong walked in. He gave me a nod, grabbing a cup of coffee.
"Rough day?" he asked, leaning against the counter.
I shrugged. "Just the usual. Clients, reports, deadlines. I needed to take a walk around, stretch my legs a little and see how everyone is around here."
He nodded, sipping his coffee. "I've noticed you've been... more approachable lately," he said, choosing his words carefully. "It's nice."
I glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. "Approachable?"
He chuckled. "Okay, maybe that's not the right word. But you seem more relaxed."
I sighed, realizing that both he and Lianne had picked up on the same thing. "It's Remus," I said, surprising even myself with the admission.
"Remus?" he echoed, clearly confused.
"My cat," I explained, a small smile tugging at my lips. "He's been, well, a bit of a distraction."
Matthew smiled, a genuine, warm smile that made me feel a little more at ease. "Pets have a way of doing that. They remind you that there's more to life than work."
"Yeah," I agreed, feeling a pang of something I couldn't quite name. "They do."
There was a moment of silence between us, the kind that felt comfortable rather than awkward. I felt like I could let my guard down, even if just a little.
"Ms. Tan" Matthew began, his tone shifting slightly, "let's have coffee some time. Nothing like a date or whatever. Just have chitchat and relax a bit."
I looked at him, really looked at him, and for the first time, I noticed the sincerity in his eyes.
"Sure. Thanks, Matthew," I said softly, appreciating the offer more than I cared to admit. "I might take you up on that."
