Reserved Attraction – RA 4

Though Sufen knew that Samuel was much older than her, it didn't occur to her that a big age difference would be a hindrance to any relationship. To her, age was never an issue as long as both parties could get along and care for each other. She had some unsuccessful affairs with guys around her age and she found them to be immature and flicker-minded. However, during her brief encounter with Samuel, she was captivated by his maturity and firmness in whatever he was doing. She would grasp every opportunity she could to be near him and to work along side him so as to spend more time with him. She couldn't explain why but she actually felt more at ease around him than around the other younger colleagues. And more importantly, she couldn't stop herself from falling for him.

Samuel welcomed the initial interest Sufen had in him but when her interest grew stronger he panicked. He wasn't sure how he should react to her 'advance'. Hadn't never being wooed by the opposite sex before, especially by one so much younger, he had his doubts. Though they got along quite well in the office, they hadn't gone out on any date and he wasn't prepared for what Sufen had in store for him. He wasn't sure if Sufen was taking him for a ride or was she just looking for a temporary companion till her 'Mr Right' comes along. Although deep in his heart he had some liking for her, he wouldn't regard it as an emotional attraction, at least not at that moment. He needed more time to sort out his thoughts and to clear any misinterpretation that she might have of him and vice versa.

Eventually, Samuel decided to keep his distance from Sufen while he tried to find a way out of his predicament. He would pack his lunch and eat it at his table rather than having it at his usual spot where Sufen would be having hers. Knowing well that Sufen would be waiting for him at the station to take the same train back, he would take a bus to the next station to catch the train from there. Sensing that something had gone amiss, Sufen left a note on his table asking about his evasive behaviour. Samuel never gave her a direct answer and just brushed it off as being too busy with work. Unfazed, Sufen continued with her usual concern for him and would never fail to sms him goodnight messages. Though Samuel was touched by her persistency, he was still hesitant in his response.

Samuel decided to consult a married friend about his unusual situation. His friend said in jest that he was lucky to be courted by such a young lady. Samuel frowned at his remark but in his mind he agreed that he was indeed fortunate to have met Sufen. On a more serious note, his friend conceded that there were indeed some uncertainties involved. Given her young age, Sufen might have a change of heart as she grows older and when she comes in contact with more guys. And by then, it would be even harder for Samuel to look for another life partner. Would he be ready to accept that Sufen's feeling for him could just be an infatuation? Would he be prepared to be dumped for the third time? Would he be .................................