She approached him, a curious look on her face. “Mind if I join you?” she asked, gesturing to the empty chair across from him.
Tim looked up at her, his eyes red from crying. He shook his head, and Clara sat down across from him.
“What’s wrong, cutie?” she asked, unable to resist teasing him a little.
Tim sniffled, wiping at his eyes. “I was bullied by a group of women,” he said, his voice quiet. “They said I was too cute and not confident enough.”
Clara raised an eyebrow. “Aww, poor baby. Those women just couldn’t handle your adorable charm.”
Tim chuckled, a small smile on his face.
Clara leaned back in her chair, studying him. “Don’t worry, Tim. You’ll find love when you’re ready. And those women who bullied you? They’re missing out on someone special.”
Tim looked up at Clara, his eyes wide. “Really?”
Clara nodded. “Really. And in the meantime, you can practice your confidence with someone who won’t judge you.”
Tim looked skeptical. “Who?”
Clara grinned. “Me, of course. I’ll show you how to handle playful insults and hold your own.”
Tim hesitated. “Come on, Tim. It’ll be fun. And who knows, you might even learn something.”
Tim finally agreed, and Clara clapped her hands together. “Great! Let’s start with something easy. How about I insult your outfit?”
Tim looked down at his clothes, unsure of what to say.
Clara looked him up and down, a critical expression on her face. “Hmm, those shoes are a bit scuffed. And that shirt...is it supposed to be that wrinkled?”
Tim blushed, embarrassed. “I guess not.”
Clara grinned. “See? You’re learning already. Now it’s your turn. Insult my outfit.”
Tim looked at Clara, taking in her sleek business suit and high heels. “Uh, your pants are a little too tight,” he said, trying to think of something.
Clara laughed. “Oh, really? And why is that a problem?”
Tim shrugged. “I don’t know. It just is.”
Clara leaned forward, a wicked gleam in her eye. “Well, Tim. Let me tell you something. When you’re a successful businesswoman like me, you have to dress to impress. And these pants? They’re designer. They cost more than your entire outfit.”
Tim’s eyes widened. “Oh.”
Clara grinned. “See? You’re getting the hang of it. Now let’s try something a little harder. Insult my personality.”
Tim looked at Clara, unsure of what to say. “Uh, you’re too bossy?”
Clara laughed. “Oh, Tim. You have no idea. I’m the definition of bossy. And you know what? It’s gotten me everywhere in life. So don’t be afraid to be a little bossy yourself, okay?”
Tim nodded, taking in Clara’s words.
Clara stood up, gathering her things. “Well, Tim. It was nice meeting you. And remember – practice makes perfect. Keep working on your confidence, and you’ll be just fine.”
Tim watched as Clara walked away, a newfound respect for her in his eyes. Maybe she was right. Maybe he could learn a thing or two from her.
He smiled to himself, already feeling a little more confident.
Want to know how it ends?
This is just the opening chapter. Continue the saga — or write a steamy tale starring you.