The Lunch Date

"Have lunch with me" a voice came from behind, causing both Suleika and Teresa to startle. Instinctively they turned and come face to face with none other than Englishman. The very one Teresa had read about in News Week Magazine. It took Suleika a minute or so realized that the casual inquiry or statement was intended for her. Chock came first , then utter disbelief caused her to go mute, she fumble for the words to formulate an answer.

"Sajid...I mean Mr. Forrester...I'm...I mean, we are working you see...we're... adding a new exhibit, frankly my presence is very much needed here ... I have a lot work ..." she ranted, stumbling over her words as she endeavored to find a plausible reason to decline his invitation. The presence of the Englishman had clearly agitated her friend, and to Teresa, her discomfort was more than amusing, prompting her to come to Sajid's aid.

"Truly Suleika there isn't any need for you to stay, after all, we are practically done with the important stuff and I can finish up the rest alone. After all don't we have a full week, before the press conference?"

"Yes of course" she forced a reluctant smile.

"Besides as you earlier said, it's abouttime for me to take on more of the load around here," Teresa said as she proceeded to gather, empty frames and carefully placing them on a wheeled cart nearby. She took great care not to look in Suleika's direction, and calmly pushed the cart away. An obviously distraught Suleika was left standing quietly next to Sajid, Eyes hunted by some inner anxiety, as she casted hateful glare toward Teresa. Sajid on the other hand, could do nothing but smile at the turn of events. He felt completely captivated by her hair under the present lighting. She looked even lovelier than what he remembered. Disregarding her obvious frustration, he quickly seized the opportunity he had been handed.

"Come, I would like to take you, to my favorite place to eat."