Page 4 of Allure
I was pulling an all-time record for running my mouth without thought today. Joy laughed as her assistant smiled and closed the door behind her.
“You’re completely fine, Lore. I promise this isn’t new to me and I was not offended. I am usually a hugger myself, but in this profession, you can be slightly unsure what someone else is comfortable with, so I leave it in their hands. But please, get comfortable. You can sit anywhere you’d like,” she said, pointing to the different chairs in the room.
She had one that was right by her, another by the window, and then another across the room, against the wall. I made my way to the seat closest to her. The other two felt so impersonal and like I was in a therapy session. I wasn’t crazy, I just needed a man, a damn good one, if I might say so myself. I stroked the arms of the chair before smiling up at her.
“I’d prefer this one, the other two feel so therapy-ish, and I’m far from needing help with that. I just need a woman I’ve never met before to help match me with the perfect husband. Well, damn, now that I think about it, it sounds like I might need to book a session with someone real soon.”
Joy smiled warmly and took the seat beside me, setting the clipboard on her lap. “I completely understand, Lore. Seeking an arranged marriage can feel like a big step, but I assure you, it’s a journey many have taken before you, and we’re here to guide you through the process.”
She glanced down at the clipboard before looking back up at me. “Now, I have a series of questions I’d like to ask you. These questions will help us get a better understanding of your personality, preferences, and what you’re looking for in a partner. There are no right or wrong answers; just be honest and open. Are you ready?”
I took a deep breath and nodded. “I’m ready. Ask away.”
Joy started with the first question. “What are the most important values you look for in a partner?”
I thought for a moment before answering. “Honesty, loyalty, and kindness. I need someone who I can trust completely, who will always have my back, and who treats others with respect.”
Joy nodded, jotting down my response. “Which three qualities are absolute must-haves in your ideal match?”
“Open-mindedness, emotional maturity, and a great sense of humor,” I replied without hesitation. “I need someone who can embrace my creative, free-spirited nature, communicate openly, and keep things fun and lighthearted.”
“How would you describe your ideal first date?” Joy asked, looking up from her clipboard.
I smiled, picturing it in my mind. “Something laid-back and fun where we can talk and get to know each other. Maybe taking a painting class together, visiting an art gallery, or grabbing coffee and walking around the city.”
Joy continued, “What is your preference regarding having children someday?”
“I want kids,” I answered. “Growing up in a loving family has made me excited to create that for myself someday. Ideally, I’d like to have two or three children, but I’m open to what feels right for us as a couple.”
“How would your closest friends describe your personality?” Joy asked.
I laughed softly. “She’d probably say I’m creative, adventurous, and a bit of a free spirit, but also deeply caring and always there for the people I love. I tend to go with the flow, but I’m ambitious too.”
Joy finished taking notes after asking the remainder of the questions and looked up at me with a warm smile. “Thank you for your honesty, Lore. These answers will be incredibly helpful in our matching process. Now, I want to give you an overview of what happens next.”
She explained that based on my responses, their team would conduct a series of assessments to determine potential matches. They would also run background checks, STD testing, and other health screenings to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties involved.
“We also conduct mental health evaluations,” Joy added. “We want to make sure that both you and your potential match are emotionally ready for a committed relationship. It’s not about perfection, but about compatibility and the potential for a strong, healthy partnership.”
I nodded, appreciating their comprehensive approach. “That all makes sense. I’m glad you’re so thorough.”
Joy leaned forward, her expression sincere. “Lore, I want you to know that while we can’t promise perfection, we can promise you a genuine chance at love. Our process is designed to bring together individuals who have the potential to build a lasting, fulfilling relationship. It may not always be easy, but we believe in the power of love and the importance of finding a true partner.”
I felt a wave of emotion wash over me, and I smiled gratefully. “Thank you, Joy. That’s all I’m looking for – a chance at something real and meaningful.”
She reached out and squeezed my hand reassuringly. “And that’s exactly what we’re here to help you find. We’ll be in touch soon with potential matches, and we’ll guide you through every step of the way. You’re not alone in this, Lore.”
As I left Joy’s office that day, I felt a renewed sense of hope and excitement. I knew that the journey ahead might be uncertain, but I was ready to embrace the possibilities and open my heart to the love I had always dreamed of finding.
THE CALL
I leaned back onto my couch, taking advantage of the much-needed peace. Since it dropped in the news that I was retiring, my father had been in a war with his damn self. I wasn’t up to fight anymore. The decision I made for my life was for me and it wasn’t up for discussion with anyone. After a while, I stopped returning his calls. It had been a few weeks since we last talked.
When my father made it a point to tell me he didn’t want to hear from me until I came to my senses, I took it and ran with it. I hadn’t felt peace like this in a while, so I wasn’t in any kind of rush to fix a damn thing.
I closed my eyes, deciding a nap was needed, and my phone vibrated. I almost didn’t pick it up, but something told me this was the call I had been waiting for. I reached over and quickly answered.
“Niko.”