Greetings!
When I saw this prompt, I took a pause to think, "Should I write about my virtual friends, because that’s where I’ve been making connections, or should I talk about my poor friendship lifestyle in the real world?" I wanted to be original, so I decided to write about the most recent friendship I made and how it started.
I’m the kind of person who doesn’t go out much. The type of work I do keeps me around the same place often, and the only time I go out is when I’m meeting clients, when it’s time for church, or on Sundays when I go to watch a match. In all these situations, I don’t talk out loud; I’m not what people call “jovial” in groups where I’m not comfortable. My online friends doubt me whenever I tell them that I don’t have many talkative friends in the real world.
The most recent friendship I made – I mean, not just the casual "hi and hello" – was two years ago, and it was with a female. It’s often easier to make friends with the opposite gender when they like your personality or share common interests.
So, we went to a wedding, one for a member of our church department, and it was quite far from the city. We arrived just after the church wedding ended and wanted to take a group photograph with the couple. I’m usually the photo coordinator in the department. It’s not an official title, but everyone knows I love taking pictures, so whenever we go out, I’m the one who usually handles the photography. Unfortunately for me, the phone I was using had a poor camera, but I insisted on using it anyway. I wanted to be in the group photo, so I asked one of the bridesmaids if she could use my phone to take the picture while I joined the group. When she saw the poor camera quality, she offered to use her phone – an iPhone – instead and send the pictures to me afterward. I agreed, as long as I would get the photos.
When we were done snapping, I went to meet her to get the photos, and instead of using the Xender app to send them, she insisted we do it through WhatsApp. Who was I to reject such an offer? I quickly agreed, and we exchanged numbers.
Little did I know she was the chief bridesmaid, and, hey, she was beautiful. All through the event, I couldn’t help but steal glances at her. I was planning my opening lines for when we would start chatting because, typically, it’s much easier for me to attract a girl over chat and phone calls.
That night, she sent the photos, and I didn’t hesitate to get her talking, laughing, and smiling. I wasn’t asking her out; we were just getting along, and she was matching my energy. I felt on top of the world. The part that really got me interested was when she told me she teaches mathematics. What! I have a special appreciation for ladies who like mathematics.
Like I said, I didn’t ask her out; we were just good friends.
Early this year, she sent me her wedding invitation, and I wished her well. I couldn’t attend because I wasn’t available. I didn’t even send her a gift, but that’s still on my mind.
Yes, we’re still friends, though the communication has reduced because I respect her marriage and personal space.
Thanks for reading.
This is my response to #Neoxianprompts of this month