to keep the laws of physics in her favor. She now graced the marble floor with her barely covered crotch displayed under subdued lighting. She took a quick injury assessment. Only her pride was bruised. She looked around to check for witnesses. A shy “Thank you” escaped her moist lips as a kind gentleman extended his supportive hand. Clearly, from his prospective, she had no more secrets.
He tried not to smile. There was surprise, but no laughter. It was as though he had received a gift he wanted but was surprised to get. The corners of his mouth turned upward—slightly and sympathetically.
Bailey took his hand.
“Are you alright?” He said, in a voice that sounded like a radio announcer.
“Yes, I think everything is still working fine.”
He pulled her up to her feet and used his arm to steady her.
Bailey brushed her hair out of her face and adjusted her feet in her skyscraper shoes.
They were quickly surrounded by the Concierge, two bellhops and several hotel guests. All inquired about her condition.
“I’m fine, I’m fine…really…I’m okay.” She said.
After taking a few steps with the strange gentleman’s arm around her waist, she managed to convince the group that she was as good as new. Her sex appeal and pride were the unspoken exceptions. After she declined several offers to visit the first aide station, the group slowly drifted away. One of the hotel guests, a personal injury attorney, pressed his business card in her hand before walking away.
“This is so damn embarrassing.” Bailey mumbled to herself as she stood unaided near a cushioned chair in the lobby.
“Better it be a fleeting moment of embarrassment, than a long term incapacitation.” Said the voice of the radio announcer.
He had not drifted away with the others.
“I’m John…John Waterman.” He said, offering his hand, this time for her to shake.
Bailey gave him her best firm handshake, the one that is meant to dispel any hint of weakness or lack of control.
“Bailey Winters…thanks for your help. But, I’m really ok ” said Bailey.
“I have no doubt of that Ms Winters. You seem perfectly capable of taking care of yourself. This was merely a momentary setback.” John said. Then smiled.
“Thankfully.” She responded.
He was tall…6’2” maybe. His silver grey hair was neatly cut and styled…a bit thin on top, but still nice. She now fixed on his very brown eyes. They were kind and inquisitive, with the slightest hint of mischief. His suit hung elegantly on his medium frame. It was dark grey…a color that spoke in the voice of tradition, while his tie—purple specks on a fuchsia background—screamed non-traditional and playful.
He watched Bailey’s eyes.
“This is my favorite tie. No, it was not a gift. I actually picked it out myself. Surprised?”John said.
“No...it’s a great tie. I love the color. A bit unexpected.“ Bailey said as she caught herself smiling broader than she thought she should after her recent spill.
“I like the unexpected. It often leads to exciting discoveries. The beaten path is…well so very beaten. There are no adventures or new scenery…or jaw-dropping surprises there.” He said in the voice Bailey decided she wanted to hear more.
“Surprises are nice.” Bailey said. Immediately, she knew her comment sounded shallow and childish. She needed to recover.
“Well, thank you again for all your help. I’m a Project Manager and I was headed to a conference. I’m afraid my little gymnastics event has made me late. Are you staying at the hotel? Perhaps, I can buy you a drink later to thank you for your assistance?” She said. Why did she say that?
“I’ll be here for a few days on business. However, a drink is not necessary. I’m grateful to you for giving me an opportunity to practice my chivalry. Here’s my card though, just in case you want to practice your gymnastics again.” John said.
He smiled, handed her his card, tilted his head and walked toward the business center.
Bailey’s embarrassment had drained away, but not her fascination with this stranger with the baritone voice. She hurried, more carefully now, to the conference meeting room.
Kyle and Jennifer gra