The next day, I forced myself out of bed and into the office. While I still could not bring myself to eat anything, I sat at my desk drinking green tea with my knees pulled up inside my XXL sweater. The sky was gray, and the dreary clouds blocked any possible sunlight from entering my office. I turned to my computer screen, determined to get some work done. My first e-mail read,

Good morning, Lori.

So how is the sick kid today? Going to play hookie again? Well, I am here bright and early again today. Another busy
day ahead of me. I have a lot to do in the next week to meet deadlines, and with me leaving early today and missing a day next week for a conference, time is short.

Speaking of the conference, guess where it is going to be held. NY, you say? Is that your final answer? Are you sure that is your definite final answer? Correct!! NO, you do not win a million dollars. I’m not that rich. It’s going to be at the Crowne Plaza. (By the way, that was my Regis impression.)

So did you see the tree lighting? You live right in the city, don’t you? It is probably a hop, skip, and a subway ride for you. Speaking of which, you work in NJ. Do you drive to work? Take the subway? If you drive, I am really impressed with you. I could never drive in the city. Yes, that’s right. I am afraid. Ok, I said it. For the first time in my life, I am afraid. Just kidding. That was my Rocky impression. You know, when he was on the beach talking to Adrian about fighting Clubber Lang (Mr. T). I’m sorry, no more impressions. Ok? (I am a big Rocky fan.)

Anyway, after class, Ringo, Pancho and I went out for a beer, and we saw the tree lighting on TV. He mentioned he sent you an e-mail. Did you get his? I didn’t tell him I e-mailed you. I told Ringo that I did. Me and Ringo go way back. Despite our large age difference (he is 47 and I am 33), we get along well. I can entrust him with certain info. By the way, I reminded him of the 20 dollars he owes me for losing the arm wrestling match to you.

So, the all-important question—are you going tonight? I hope so. I would really like you to.

Well, I have a ton to do, and so little time to do it in. But I already said that.

One more question. Do you get HBO? Have you ever seen the series Taxi Cab Confessions? Does stuff like that really happen in NY cabs? I mean, I sit on those seats, too. Just curious.

I lied, I have one more question. So, what do you enjoy? Besides working out? You know, like music, activities? I want to know more about you.

Now I am really going.

The Master Blaster
a.k.a. Tyler (Now I’m making my best Bruce Lee face.)