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Friends And Lovers The first time I realized that Faith and I had been mistaken to be a “couple” was after a networking introduction she arranged. Later, upon receiving feedback from this contact, she reported that he had referred to me as her boyfriend. She told me so with a mischievous giggle. I couldn’t see her facial expression as we were talking over the phone, but I imagined her grinning with a devilish twinkle in her eye. I was both flattered and amused by her report, and somewhat intrigued. Of course, we are great friends and enjoy each other’s company. It probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that people could assume that our relationship is deeper. After that revelation, impersonating a couple became something of a game for us, subtle if not overt. You might call it our private conspiracy. It isn’t the kind of activity that I could share with my wife of 40 years, even though she and Faith are friends. I imagine that this is the kind of mischief a brother and sister could enjoy during their lifetime. Just a few months ago I was having cocktails and a cigar with two of my colleagues. We were at our favorite watering hole when lo and behold, the ex-wife of one of my buddies entered the bar with her date. Initially, it was an awkward moment for my friend. It became a bit surreal when she down right next to us. Fortunately, there were no issues. We were on our best behavior, and everyone got along just fine. I had forgotten that I had met my friend’s wife at a networking event Faith that I had orchestrated a year earlier. This lady reminded me that we had met before referencing that networking event. She went on to say that she enjoyed meeting my lovely wife. She thought Faith was my wife, who wasn't at the event. Being the gentleman I am, I did not correct her, allowing her to live instead with her assumption. Faith and I shared one event that was borderline scandalous. I planned, it that way. However, I didn't realize how far and effective the charade would actually go. It all began when I was inviting to attend a reception for the local alumni chapter. It seems the new Dean of the College of Nursing for my alma mater planned to be in town. She arranged to speak to the local alumni about the current Direction of the Nursing School. This event was scheduled for Thursday evening right around 6 PM as I recall. The location they chose was Brio Tuscan Grille in the heart of Buckhead, not far from Faith's home. So I suggested that we meet before the event to share a glass of wine or two. From that point, we would it play it by ear, and possibly enjoy another glass of wine, compliments of the University. The Dean's reception was held in a private meeting room, directly across from the bar. As we were enjoying our wine, I watch the room fill up with local alumni, many of whom I knew. When the Dean began her presentation, Faith, and I joined the group. It was a nice event, and very well attended and included new administrative personnel from the Alumni Association. As it was winding down, Faith and I were invited to join a smaller group for dinner. I wasn't so sure about that idea, so we left the gathering and headed back to the bar for a nightcap. You might say we were just minding our own business, catching up on our lives. It wasn't long before we were approached by our new friends from the Alumni Association who insisted that we join them at their table for dinner. Faith and I were just minding her own business, and had no intention of continuing our charade, but what the hell? We had an invitation and our host would not take no for an answer. A free dinner and more wine, why not? The group consisted of two employees of the Alumni Association, two other alumni who I know pretty well, and another couple seated to the right of Faith. I had not met them before. After we ordered our meals we did the usual introductions around the table. I let Faith introduce herself and her occupation. At no time did we overtly represent ourselves as a couple although it would have been natural to assume we so. It was a nice dinner with stimulating discussion. We learned about the plans for the Alumni Association and made some new friends. The only downside was that I drank at least one glass of wine too many. But, it was very good wine. On the way out, Faith relayed an interesting exchange with her dinner companion seated on her right. At some point during their conversation, this lady asked how long Faith and I had been married. Faith told her that we were not married, but friends, associates, and networking buddies. Apparently, this lady let out a gasp, as a look of shock overtook her; another victim of a bad assumption. I was disappointed to have missed that. I can only imagine the gossip that followed. I suppose I should feel guilty, but I don’t. By this time in my life, I have come to the realization that friends like Faith are far more important than lovers. Lovers may come and go, but friendship can endure, prolonging the fun! Courvoisier Jim Weber, President NEW CENTURY DYNAMICS EXECUTIVE SEARCH Author, "Fighting Alligators: Job Search Strategy For The New Normal" |
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