The intimate obsession

The evening sun casts long shadows across the park. My heart races as I stand in the shadow of a large oak tree, my eyes fixed on Jason and an unknown woman. The woman is elegant with long dark hair and a poised demeanor. The grip on the purse in my hand tightened as I watched the woman's hand brush against Jason's arm, a fleeting gesture that sent a pang of jealousy through my veins. The woman's laughter was like a gesture breeze on a summer day, and Jason's smile was captivating, his eyes crinkling at the corner as he leaned in closer to her.

My eyes lingered on Jason, tracing the familiar contours of his face, his strong jawline, the piercing eyes that seemed to see through me. Suddenly the sound of my name "Nina" carried on the gentle breeze, breaking the spell that held me transfixed.

"Nina!! Nina!!" The voice called again and cut through my thoughts, as Jason and the unknown woman drove off in his luxurious car. even the Christmas air didn't feel like one anymore because of the wave of emotions contrasting within me, my eyes remained fixed on the spot where Jason's car had driven off, my mind still processing the encounter, I watched as the car grew smaller and smaller until it was out of sight, my gaze gradually returned to the present. I swiveled around to face the person who had called my name, and it was Brad, a workmate I had collaborated with on many projects. Stood out in his unconventional style, sporting thick-framed glasses, a pocket protector, and a shirt with a subtle sheen, his unkempt hair and endearingly awkward smile add to his endearing nerd persona.

Despite his bookish appearance, there's an air of quiet confidence about him, suggesting a sharp mind and a quick wit.

"You are still here? I could have sworn you departed a while back", his voice tinged with confusion. He smiled down at me, his eyes twinkling." I had left the office end-of-the-year party earlier than anticipated with the excuse that I don't like staying out late, only to find myself standing in the park, staring at Jason and his mysterious woman from afar, like a love-sick puppy.

Redirecting the conversation, I asked for a spontaneous downtown adventure, "let's have a quick snack in the city" I said, letting out a soft smirk.

"No," said Brad, "I have got prior engagement and don't want to cancel". "Alright, I won't push", I said with a smile as he turned to leave. "Merry Christmas Nina", he said over his shoulder, I called out in response"Merry Christmas Brad" my voice barely above a whisper.