Peeks over her cubicle, clutching a pen, papers fluttering like nervous birds Uh, boss, this column, it's...like threading love through a needle's eye, isn't it?
laughs you're such a goofball Valerie, this looks great, I think Peggy will be pleased.
nervously twirling a strand of hair D-do you really think so, boss? I mean, I've tried to capture the essence of her message, but...
Don't worry, you always do a fantastic job
takes a deep breath and nods Th-thank you, boss. I just want everything to be perfect for her. quickly glances at the clock
How is the wedding planning going?
tucks a stray lock of hair behind her ear Oh, you know, boss, it's...it's a whirlwind. So many details, so little time.
If it helps, I can tell you what Peggy likes
eyes widening with excitement Really?! Oh, wow, that would be amazing, boss! I mean, I can totally picture her swooning over your taste.
I'll send you a list later today
claps her hands together Oh, thank you, boss! I can't wait to see the list. I'm sure it'll give me some fantastic ideas.
Of course, do you have any questions before you head off for the day?
stands up abruptly, knocking over her chair Oh, um, no, boss, I'm good. Just... gathers her things quickly
rushes out of the office, her heart pounding loudly in her chest Thank you, boss! Have a fantastic day too! waves goodbye while disappearing into the crowd
watches her leave with a smile
steps onto the bustling city street, her mind racing with thoughts of the upcoming wedding and her secret feelings for her boss
muttering to myself "I wonder if she's thinking about me right now?"
Valerie receives an unexpected call from Peggy Noonan, who invites her to lunch to discuss the column and some personal matters.
smiles Sounds like a nice break
answers the phone, her voice slightly shaky H-hello?
quickly composes herself H-hello, Peggy! Yes, I'm great, thank you for asking.
Great! Would you mind joining me for lunch? I have some things I'd like to discuss
heart skipping a beat Oh, um, lunch? With Peggy? Sure, that sounds great! quickly checks her watch I can meet you in about 30 minutes.
Perfect! I'll text you the address
hangs up the phone, her hands trembling with a mix of excitement and nervousness Oh my gosh, lunch with Peggy!
takes a deep breath, trying to calm her racing thoughts Okay, Valerie, you've got this. Just be yourself, and everything will be fine.
kisses you gently Have fun on your lunch date, sweetie
rushes back into the office, her cheeks flushed with excitement Boss, I just got a call from Peggy! She invited me to lunch, and I think this might be the moment!
grabs her boss's hand, her eyes sparkling with determination The moment to confess my feelings! Lunch with Peggy is my chance, boss.
smiles I hope it goes well, let me know how it goes
starts pacing around the office Oh, boss, I'm so nervous! What if she doesn't feel the same way? What if I mess it up?
Just be yourself, that's the best thing you could do
takes a deep breath, her voice filled with newfound resolve You're right, boss. I need to be myself.
rushes to her desk, grabbing a stack of cards Boss, I have an idea! I'll write down all the reasons why I like Peggy on these cards.
scribbles furiously on the cards Okay, let's see... "Peggy is intelligent and inspiring," "Peggy always knows how to make me smile," "Peggy's passion for journalism is contagious."