The Invite

Faint chimes echoed through the air, but Landon couldn't pinpoint their source. He struggled to keep his eyes open, but his weary body demanded rest. With sheer determination, he rose and leaned on the sofa arm for support.

His vision was hazy and he groped his way towards his study, feeling the ground sway beneath him. A carpet snagged his foot and he stumbled, wincing in pain, struggling to stand once more.

He finally made it to his desk, only to hear the sound stop for a second time. His sight failing him, head throbbing, Landon felt his strength draining away and was unable to move.

The incessant ringing of his phone seemed to urge him to answer, but he could not reach it. Collapsing to the ground, he slipped into unconsciousness.

The following morning, Landon awoke amidst a pile of papers, news articles, and books.

His desk had tipped over and he felt a sharp ache in his knee and arm. His phone rang from beneath the clutter, thankfully undamaged. He checked the caller ID and saw 30 missed calls from an unknown number. Glancing at the time, he realized it was already 11 in the morning and he knew he had to pry himself away from work once again.

Moving the papers, his phone rang once more and he hurriedly answered as he exited his study. "Hello," he answered, collapsing onto the couch and rubbing his face to ease his growing headache. He had forgotten to take his painkillers the night before, hoping to wean himself off of them as they only seemed to make his headaches worse.

"Landon? Is that you?" The voice on the other end of the phone was all too familiar.

His heart skipped a beat as he slowly stood up, feeling the earth come to a pause and his breath hold still. He gripped the phone tightly, the familiarity of the voice sending a rush of emotions through him. His throat suddenly went dry as he swallowed hard, hoping to ease the tightness that formed.

"Laurie?" His response was reflexive, unsure of the owner of the voice he just heard. Had she really just called...?

A brief pause and then, "Yes Landon, it's me Laurie... I hope you're free today?" Her voice was soft, yet filled with anticipation.

"Yes, yes," he responded almost immediately, a sheen of sweat breaking out on his forehead and his armpits becoming damp. He no longer felt the pounding in his head, all his focus was on the familiar voice on the other end of the line.

"I want to see you, can we meet for lunch?" She asked eagerly, trying to hide her eagerness.

Landon swallowed nervously as his hands trembled. "Y-yes, we can... Where can I see you?" He asked, breathless. Hastily, he searched for a pen and paper to jot down the address and time for their meeting, promising to be there on time.

The call ended and he studied the paper, a slow smile spreading across his face. It was finally happening! She had finally called after six long months of waiting! The reason for his recurring headaches, his pain, and the endless waiting, had finally reached out to him on her own.

"Yes!" Landon exclaimed triumphantly, breaking out into a goofy dance. He looked around his study room, seeing the chaos that awaited him in the form of paperwork to tidy up, but he didn't mind. Right now, he had the energy and he would happily clean while humming along to the hip hop music playing on his phone. Rushing to his room to get ready, he couldn't contain his excitement for the long-awaited reunion.

Landon's morning routine began. He quickly brushed his teeth, indulged in a good shave and showered, but finding his clothes proved to be a challenge. He rummaged through the piles of garments he had pulled out weeks ago, until he found the perfect shirt and trousers. With diligence, he ironed both garments, taking his time to ensure they were flawless. As he savored his self-prepared breakfast, the trendy beat of a popular song from his Playlist filled the room.

As noon approached, Landon retrieved his car keys and stepped out, only to realize his vehicle had been dormant for some time. It yearned for a thorough cleaning and some oil. After summoning a mechanic, Landon hailed a cab.

As he checked his pockets, he confirmed he had enough cash for transportation and possibly their dinner. Waving down a taxi with an air of superiority, he instructed the driver to head to Delight restaurant with haste. "I don't want to keep my lady waiting," he urged, the driver nodding obediently as they raced off.

Upon arriving at the restaurant, Landon tipped the cab driver before stepping out. Checking his watch, he noted that he had arrived early. He watched the taxi depart and turned to admire the beautifully familiar facade of the restaurant. It held a plethora of memories, yet it remained as inviting as ever.

Taking a deep breath, Landon made his way to the assigned table for two. He sat down gently, surveying the surroundings as he waited for her. About ten minutes later, he spotted her.

His woman, walking into the restaurant with grace and elegance - just as before. She was a vision to behold, adorned in a form-fitting red gown that accentuated her curves. Landon patiently watched from a distance, a smile playing on his lips as he observed her searching for him amidst the fancy decor.

Raising his hand in a wave, Landon caught her attention. She smiled upon recognizing him and gracefully proceeded to his table. He couldn't help but appreciate how her beauty had only intensified, and she looked more at ease than ever before.

She had become more radiant, her aura exuding a sense of calmness that he lacked. As she embraced him with confidence, the delicate fragrance of her perfume filled his senses, evoking a flood of memories. Landon reciprocated the hug warmly, planting a quick kiss on her cheek.