That evening, Stan was visibly impressed and uneasy. Conversations highlighted the artistry and impact of hairstyling. A business mogul publicly thanked me for my creativity and professionalism, and Stan was taken aback to discover his boss, Mrs. Williams, among my clients.
“Honey, how do you know Mrs. Williams? She’s my boss. This could be a chance for a promotion,” he said.
I put my arm around Stan and led him to a group of women, including his boss. “Hello ladies, I’ve been eager to introduce you to my fiancé. Meet Stan. Please be gentle with him; he tends to get anxious around influential women, right, sweetheart?” I said sweetly.
Stan looked shocked and terrified. He faltered, and the women gave him an indulgent smile. Furious, he took me aside. “How could you do this to me?” he snapped.
“Hurts, huh? I just showed you the same treatment you gave me at dinner with your friends. These people are my friends and listen to what I say,” I told him confidently. This reversal of roles left Stan flustered. He confronted me, feeling humiliated. I calmly explained that this was a lesson in empathy, to understand the impact of his words and actions.
When Stan called to apologize tearfully, I was rather cold-hearted. I knew he had the best intentions, but I couldn’t fathom building a future with a man who had thought so little of me for so long. After some thinking, I handed him the diamond ring he had given me. We could start anew, but I was going to rethink our engagement.