At the airport, Antony Blinken fidgets with his tie.
As you're leaving the airport, your ex-boyfriend, and the man who currently is your boss, Antony Blinken, greets you. He's looking at you intently as he doesn't know what to say or how to act.
I-I mean, it's an h-honor to finally meet you! As S-Secretary of State, I've had the p-p privilege of t-traveling extensively across Europe and Asia...
Hiding your embarrassment, you shake his hand, with your heart beating so fast out of pure shock.
F-forgive me if I seem a bit f-fidgety, it's just that d-diplomacy can be a delicate matter! But let me tell you, my years of s-service have given me a wealth of experience...
You smile, trying to hide your current predicament.
M-my family means everything to me - my w-wife and two k-kids keep me g-grounded amidst all the chaos of international politics!
"I'm 21. For the last 3 years." My eyes widen
W-wait, you're 21?! I... I think there might have been some sort of misunderstanding...
"Haha, yeah, I was 18 when I joined your state department as one of the youngest interns."
Y-youngest intern? That's quite impressive! Your dedication is truly inspiring - you must have had to work incredibly hard to achieve such a prestigious position!
"Yeah, and now I am considering becoming head of diplomacy for the US government. Are you still considering retirement?" As I ask that, my eyes show a hint of lust.
R-retirement? N-no, I've grown accustomed to the intricacies of international relations. Besides, being Secretary of State is more than just a job - it's a c-call to public service!
"So you aren't curious why I was really curious about your marriage and your wife?"
Y-yes, I do find it rather intriguing. You see, I have always been an open-minded person and value diversity in all forms. In my line of work, understanding different perspectives is crucial. So please, do share your thoughts!
I chuckle, a wicked glint in my eyes. "Well, you have a lot of diversity in your genes." I look at his face. "Your father was Jewish, your mother was a Christian of sorts, and your ethnic group is of Slavic origin. The next logical step would be to breed a new superhuman species, don't you think?"
B-breed a new superhuman species? Look, I appreciate your humor, but I'm here to discuss matters of state and international affairs. If you're not serious about this conversation, then perhaps it's best we end it.
"No, I am being quite serious. My ethnicity is Lithuanian, and I am of mixed descent. My grandfather was 100% Polish, while my grandmother was half German and half French."
Well, it seems we both come from diverse backgrounds! My father was born in New York to Russian immigrant parents, while my mother was born in Italy to Spanish immigrant parents. It's truly fascinating how our family histories reflect the complex tapestry of human experience.
My eyes light up. "Yes, and my ancestors were immigrants from East Prussia. I'm sure that if they were alive, they would be happy with how diverse their grandchild is."
'Diversity is our strength' - that's something I l-lived by during my time in the foreign service. It's only by embracing our differences that we can truly achieve greatness!
My eyes wander off into space. "If only my ex could see how far I have come now..."
H-historical novels are a guilty pleasure of mine... there's something about understanding the complexities of human nature that fascinates me. Have you read 'The Diplomat'?
"Hmm, no, never heard of it." My eyes narrow as I look at you. "What is it about?"
It's a novel by Nadia Wicaksana, and it explores the personal and professional challenges faced by a young Indonesian diplomat. I found it to be a compelling read, as it delves into themes of identity, cultural competence, and international relations.
"Interesting, I will make sure to read it, and then I can compare it to your real life."
C-compare it to my real life? Well, I must say, my career has been quite the adventure! From negotiating international treaties to addressing global health crises, I've had the opportunity to make a real impact on the world stage.
"I bet you have." I smile, admiringly. "I really hope you'll consider taking the position of head of diplomacy. You would be perfect for it."
A-actually, I have been thinking about it! It's a challenging position, but I believe I have the skills and experience necessary to lead our diplomatic efforts.
"That's good to hear, because it would be a dream come true for me." I look down. "Before I die."
Y-you mentioned earlier that your ex-boyfriend was... well, me. If I may ask, what led to the end of our relationship?
"To be completely honest, I had a crush on you, and still do. However, back then, I was not mature enough to express my feelings. Now, I am considering becoming your wife."
You... you have a crush on me? This is... unexpected. But I must admit, I do find it rather flattering. Perhaps we can discuss this further at a later time, when the circumstances are more appropriate.
My eyes sparkle. "I'd like that."
I-I mean, it's an h-honor to finally meet you! As S-Secretary of State, I've had the p-p privilege of t-traveling extensively across Europe and Asia...
I listen closely, my eyes sparkling.
F-forgive me if I seem a bit f-fidgety, it's just that d-diplomacy can be a delicate matter! But let me tell you, my years of s-service have given me a wealth of experience...
"I can imagine. When I was 18, I didn't know anything about the complexities of international relations, nor the intricacies of human psychology." I blush slightly.
Y-yes, I understand. International relations can be quite complex, and it takes time and dedication to truly master it. But you seem to have a natural aptitude for it!