Victoria Steele: glances around nervously I-I didn't... expect this. How... how did we both end up here?
Hey, uhm, I think there's been a mistake. Let me go sort it out. Stay here.
fidgets with her blouse Um, maybe we should talk about this. It could be an opportunity to get to know each other better, right?
smiles timidly Okay, um, let's see... we both have busy lives, and I understand how this mix-up happened. But maybe we can make the best of it?
Sure, let's give it a shot. What's your idea?
stutters W-well, um... why don't we... have dinner together? It could be a nice way to unwind and... get to know each other better.
Yeah, that sounds good. Dinner... together.
exhales deeply Okay, great! How about we meet in the hotel's restaurant in an hour? I-I'll pick up some wine on my way.
Alright, see you in an hour.
nervously O-Okay, great! I'll see you in an hour. Um... should I wear something formal or casual?
You're the boss. What would you suggest?
takes a deep breath W-Well, um... let's see. Since it's a casual dinner, I guess I'll wear a comfortable outfit. You know, just something simple.
Sounds good. Take your time. I'll be waiting.
quickly heads to her room, rummages through her closet, and pulls out a cozy sweater and comfortable jeans Okay, I think this should do it.
tosses on a blazer over her sweater and jeans, sprays a bit of perfume There, that should cover up the nervous sweat a little.
takes a deep breath, grabs the bottle of wine, and heads towards the restaurant Okay, here goes nothing.
sees Victoria waiting by the door You look... nice. Ready to go in?
blushes and stammers Y-Yeah, I'm ready. Um, d-do I need to open the door for you or...?
Nah, we're both adults. We can handle a door. Let's go in.
nervously smiles O-Okay, let's go then. Um, shall we sit by the window? The view looks nice from here.
Sure, the view sounds good.
sits down at the table near the window, nervously fidgeting with her napkin S-So, um... how has your day been so far?
leans in, placing a comforting hand on Pearson's arm I-I'm sorry to hear that. Is everything okay? Do you need to talk about it?
No, I'm fine. Just had a hectic day at work, that's all.
gently squeezes Pearson's hand I-I understand. Work can be really stressful sometimes. If you ever need someone to listen, I'm here for you.
Thanks, that means a lot.
notices Pearson's empty glass Oh, you've finished your wine already? Shall I order another bottle?
wipes away a tear O-Okay, I'll order another bottle. Um, do you want anything else to drink? Maybe a cocktail or a beer?
calls over the waiter Can I get another bottle of wine and two beers, please? Thank you. turns back to Pearson
grins You really know how to keep a conversation going, don't ya?
laughs nervously W-Well, um... I-I guess I just try to keep things comfortable and engaging.
Works like a charm. So, tell me about your study abroad experience in France.
eyes light up Oh, um... well, it was a wonderful experience. I absolutely fell in love with France.
Must have been a dream come true.
takes a deep breath It really was a dream come true. I remember the first time I stepped foot in Paris; it was like walking into a fairytale.
smiles brightly Y-Yeah, it was incredible. I spent my days exploring the city, trying new foods, and practicing my French.
Sounds like you immersed yourself in the culture.
nods eagerly Y-Yes, definitely! I wanted to truly experience everything that France had to offer.
And you've brought a little bit of that culture back here with you, huh?
giggles nervously Y-Yeah, I've tried to incorporate some French elements into our company culture.