Coffee After Work
Matilda and Kurt worked until the end of the day when she spoke on the elevator. “Is there any chance you’d want to grab a coffee? You know, talk about fashion or maybe even just ourselves? I think Isabelle really wants us to become friends and great working partners, too.
“Umm, sure. My roommates should still be at work, so I’ve got time.” He checked his watch just to make sure. “Yep, I’ve got plenty of time. They don’t get off for another hour or so.”
“Fantastic! There’s a great coffee shop about a block from here. We can walk to it, it won’t take long. Plus the weather is just great outside.” She smiled and adjusted her leather skirt so that she looked more relaxed, but still presentable.
Together they walked to the coffee shop and walked in. Matilda walked up to the counter and ordered a caramel macchiato, then gestured for Kurt to order. Of course, he ordered a nonfat mocha and almost ordered a medium drip before reminding himself that Blaine wasn’t there with him. They got their coffee and found an empty table, thus sitting down.
“You said we would talk about fashion and ourselves. What did you mean by that?”, Kurt asked warily.
“I meant talk about our favorite brands, designers, and then just some generic things about yourself. Like I’m a fan of Versace, so I obviously love the work Gianni did and that Donatella does. You said you liked Christian Siriano, so what’s your favorite design that he’s created?”
Kurt thought for a moment. “I don’t know. Obviously the dress and suit combo he made for Billy Porter. I mean, how could you hate it?” Before Matilda could answer, he continued, “but I also love his corseted sequin draped gown. And don’t forget about his wedding gowns. There’s not one of those that you can’t like,”
“Oh, his wedding gowns. To have Christian Siriano design mine would be a dream come true, but I don’t see that happening anytime soon. I broke up with my last girlfriend about six months ago. She was manipulative and snide. Used gaslighting to make me feel like it was all a dream and that I was going crazy. Told me that I couldn’t be nonbinary, because she was a lesbian. Told me that I couldn’t be a bottom because she was a bottom, too. She also groomed me emotionally and left me feeling empty inside. It caused a lot of trauma for me, but I’m getting better.” She forced a smile.
“I’m so sorry to hear about that.” He checked his watch. “Whoops, I got to go, Mati. It’s Monday, which means I got to cook dinner for all my friends. You're welcome to come over if you want.”
They both stood up as she declined his offer. Kurt hailed a taxi to the apartment. When he got there, he opened the door to find two solemn faces. “Guys, what’s wrong?”