I was anxious before asking Lauren to meet. However, I was surprised when she readily agreed to meet me. She was already waiting for me when I arrived at our agreed meeting place.

The impression she left on me shattered my previous perception of her. She was astute but also forthright and bold. Lauren initiated the conversation, “I didn’t expect you to want to meet me. Regardless of your intentions, I feel I should apologize.”

I smiled and responded, “Saying it's okay would seem insincere, and