After work the next day, one of my car-loving coworkers asked if I wanted to hit the car show with him.

I was actually planning to go with him. We get along great and both love cars. But since I'd already promised Iris, I had to say sorry and turn him down.

I ended up waiting for Iris on the sidewalk outside my office.

Before I even thought to text her, Iris sent a message: [Albert, I'm on my way. Meet me downstairs at your office.]

I texted back: [Okay.]

So, I just stood there outside the office, watching the traffic.

The sun set, and it got dark. I was still there waiting.

Two hours passed, and Iris still hadn't shown up. It was a less than 20-minute drive from our home to my office.

I tried calling her, but she didn't answer. Texts went unanswered too.

At 9 p.m., I checked Iris' phone location and found her at the Night Hotel.

2

By then, the car show was long over.

Hungry and tired, I went to grab dinner around 10 p.m.

After eating, I caught a cab home, washed up, and went to bed.

I didn't bombard Iris with texts or calls to ask why she stood me up like I used to.

I wasn't even upset about her no-show.

Iris came home at 2 a.m., turning on every light in the place.