Chapter Text
Things had been so much different, or really, so much better since Wei had taken over at the Commissioners Guild.
Nevermind that his brother Yan was a terrible person and that just about anyone would seem like an improvement, Wei was a dream boss.
Alice had done well for herself before he showed up, but now there was even more potential to build her business.
While she had absolutely no interest in working for Duvos, their interest in her caught the attention of the Alliance.
Unbeknownst to her, they had been keeping a record of her bigger projects and there was talk of trying to get her to Atara to work for them.
Alice had been in Sandrock for a year now and felt not only established in regards to her job, but also within the community. She had made friends with nearly everyone in town and decided this would be her home for the foreseeable future.
Her parents had been bugging her about marriage and kids. Alice was 28 and felt she had more than enough time to figure all of that out, but a part of her acknowledged it felt like something was missing in her life.
She had casually dated a few people in town. The closest she came to having a serious relationship was with Unsuur, but she ultimately decided they were better as friends.
So instead she had thrown herself into work.
Wei had offered to tour her workshop and make suggestions on potential additions or improvements.
He came by on a Sunday armed with breakfast pastries and coffee.
“I figured we could make this more of a social thing.” He smiled brightly.
Alice felt her cheeks get warm. Why was she having this reaction?
She had never seen him in casual clothing. He always wore a well fitted suit to work and unlike Yan, was well shaven. Also, despite them being twins, Wei looked about 15 years younger. She didn’t know exactly how old he was, but thought maybe mid-40’s.
They sat outside, taking advantage of the cool morning temperatures.
“You have really made a home for yourself here.” Wei looked around.
“Thank you,” She replied. “How are you liking it here so far?”
He turned back to look at her, “Well, anything beats the Peripheries,” he laughed, “But honestly, it’s been a really nice transition. Plus, having you on our team makes all the difference.”
Alice blushed again. “It’s a group effort.”
“Don’t be so modest, Alice,” Wei admonished. “You are a gifted Builder, probably the best in the Free Cities.”
“I don’t know about that…” Alice took a sip of her coffee.
“Actually, maybe I don’t want you to realize your potential since you might consider leaving us for greener pastures.”
Alice tilted her head, “I don’t have any plans to leave Sandrock, especially not when it comes to work.”
“That’s good to hear. Selfishly, I’d miss you.” Wei looked at her with a gentle expression. “Anyway, give me a tour!”
He hopped up from his seat.
Alice walked him around. He inspected each piece of equipment while jotting down notes. He asked her questions about energy use and efficiency.
“I don’t have much in the way of advice on how to improve your setup. Seems you have everything in order. If you’re ever interested in learning some tricks with these machines, I’d be happy to show you.” Wei hovered closer to Alice.
“That would be great…maybe next Sunday?” She asked.
“It’s a date!” Wei smiled and made his way towards the gate. “See you over at the Guild tomorrow.”
Alice sat down and replayed their interaction. Why was she suddenly nervous around him? Was he flirting with her or was that just how he was with everyone? She had never looked at him as more than her superior. More specifically, she didn’t scrutinize him the way she might a person she was interested in.
But now she was noticing things she hadn’t before.
Don’t be ridiculous, Alice. He’s your boss, not a potential suitor.
***
The week went by fairly quickly. Alice was busy with commissions and had only run into Wei a few times, just long enough to say hello and exchange pleasantries.
As Sunday approached, she felt those same nervous twangs she had the week before. This time she put a little more effort into her appearance, opting for a casual dress and letting her hair down out of the messy bun she typically opted for.
Wei arrived once again with food and drink in tow. His eyes lit up when she came to let him in.
“Well, good morning, Alice! You look nice today.” He remarked.
It was an innocent observation, but she blushed nonetheless.
They spent the day working on small projects using Wei’s suggestions. Alice was impressed with how much more her machines could do.
“It’s nice to have someone else who is as enthusiastic about these kinds of things.” He mused.
“Thank you so much, Wei, for taking the time to show me.”
“Of course, the pleasure was all mine.”
As she walked him to the gate, he turned to her.
“I know this is unprofessional and I want to be clear that your answer will not change our working relationship, but, would you have dinner with me?”
She felt a lump in her throat. She bit her lower lip to consider the question.
“Listen, think it over and let me know what you decide. Take all the time you need.” He said gently. “I just want you to know that I’ve grown incredibly fond of you.”
She nodded and he let himself out.
On the surface, it may seem like Wei would be shy, maybe even reserved. But Alice wondered if his near death experience had made him view life differently. What did you have to lose when you'd already gone through such a harrowing journey? And on top of that, knowing it was your own brother who sought your demise?
***
On Monday, Alice went to the Guild early, knowing Wei would be there.
He looked up, surprised to see her. “Good morning, Alice! Early bird gets the worm, huh?”
She smiled “Something like that…I came here to talk to you, actually.”
“Oh, I see.” He replied.
“I would like to…accept your invitation to dinner.” She said,
“That’s wonderful!” He said “OK, don’t be overwhelmed, but I have it all planned out.”
Alice’s heart started to pound.
“There is a little place in Portia that I’d like to take you. The chef there is very gifted. I know it will take us all day to get there, so I was planning on getting us separate rooms at their inn and then we could head back to Sandrock the following day.”
“Wow…that is quite the plan,” she paused, “I look forward to it.”
He broke out into a huge grin. “As do I!” I’ll get us bus tickets for Saturday.”
Just then Mi-an walked in. “Oh! Sorry! I can come back!” she exclaimed upon seeing them.
“No, no, Mi-an, we just finished talking.” Wei smiled and stood up.
“OK, if you’re sure…” Mi-an eyed Alice.
Alice nodded, “I was just about to look at the Commission board.”
They both took requests and left.
“Um, Alice, what was THAT all about?” Mi-an barely let the door close behind her before confronting Alice.
“Well…” Alice hesitated. Mi-an was one of her closest friends, but they were also co-workers. In addition, she didn’t know if Wei preferred that this fly under the radar, at least for now. But she was also dying to tell someone.
“...Wei…asked me out.” Alice shared quietly.
Wide eyed and slack jawed, Mi-an was speechless. But only for a moment.
“Wait, what?! He WHAT??”
“Shhhhhh…lets go somewhere where it’s quiet!”
Alice tugged Mi-an towards her house.
When they were just outside of her gate, she let go of her arm.
“Alice, what did you say???” Mi-an asked.
“I…I said yes.” Alice looked at her sheepishly.
“I have no words, but also so many questions!!”
Alice was wondering if she was going to regret telling Mi-an. But it was too late now.
“There’s not much to tell, at least, not yet.” Alice tried to play it off.
“Psssshhh, if I didn’t have to get this commission to Heidi, I would be in full investigation mode. Don’t you worry though, I’ll be back!” Mi-an ran towards town.
Later that night, Mi-an came by with a bottle of wine and the two of them sat outside.
“So…spill it!” Mi-an quipped while pouring them glasses.
“There’s nothing to spill! He’s come by a couple of Sundays to help me with my equipment-”
Mi-an shot her a sly smile.
“Oh stop, not like that. Anyway, he asked me out yesterday and said I could think about it and I agreed to it this morning.”
“When is the date?” Mi-an quickly followed up.
“Yes, well, about that…”
Mi-an scooted her chair closer.
“We’re going to dinner…in Portia.” Alice started.
“Portia??? Wait, that means you’ll have to stay there overnight!” Mi-an was practically hyperventilating at this point.
“Right. Wei is going to book us SEPARATE rooms at their inn.” Alice quickly responded.
Mi-an sat back in her chair exasperated. “Alice, no judgment. I mean, Wei is a very attractive man and incredibly kind. But um, isn’t he a bit old…?”
Alice wasn’t offended by her question. She too had been thinking about their age difference. I mean, he wasn’t as old as her father, but he had at least fifteen years on her.
“I’ve definitely been thinking about it. But we’re both adults. I’m almost 30.”
Mi-an nodded, “I guess that’s true. But what about the whole “boss” thing?” Mi-an went from relaxed to anxious again.
“I guess I just go back to the whole being adults thing. I’m hoping whatever happens, we can still respect each other professionally.”
Mi-an nodded again “Wow, Alice, this is…I mean, if you’re happy about this, then obviously I am too.”
Alice smiled, “I am. I’m pretty surprised about it myself, but I like him, Mi-an.” She blushed hearing the words coming out of her mouth.
Mi-an squealed, “You better tell me everything when you get back!”
They sipped their wine and giggled. Alice felt better about someone knowing.