How can he not notice me? fumed Lottie, studying her reflection in the mirror while touching up her full lips. Never mind, the office partys coming upthats when Ill finally get his attention! This is the story of how my friend Lottie tried to win over a colleague and what came of it.
Lottie and Her Confidence
Lottie and I have been mates since university. Shes 32, striking, polished, always the centre of attention. Men glance her way, and she knows exactly how to use her charm. At work, in our small IT firm, shes the star of the show. Shes in the marketing team, always dressed to the nines, and even the sternest boss cracks up at her jokes in meetings.
But then a new bloke, Oliver, joined, and Lottie couldnt work him out. Tall, handsome, with impeccable mannersexactly the sort shed go for. Trouble was, Oliver didnt seem to notice her flirting. She told me how shed asked him out for coffee, but he politely declined, saying he was busy. Later, she accidentally wound up in the lift with him and tried to chat, but he just smiled and stepped out.
Am I too perfect for him?
After another failed attempt, Lottie stormed into my office, fuming. Is he into blokes or something? How can he ignore me? She stood there, fussing with her hair and reapplying lipstick like she was gearing up for another go. I chuckled. Maybe hes just shy or has a girlfriend? But Lottie wouldnt hear it. No, Emily, somethings off. He talks to everyone else, but me? Nothing!
She decided the office partyjust a week awaywould be her moment. She bought a new dress, booked a stylist, and even planned how to accidentally end up next to Oliver at dinner. Thatll do it, she declared with total confidence.
The Party and the Unexpected Twist
The night arrived, and Lottie looked stunningscarlet dress, flawless makeup, glowing smile. Every bloke in the room noticed her, except Oliver, who kept his distance. He danced with other women, joked with the lads, but didnt approach Lottie once. I watched her smile tighten, but she kept her cool.
Then I spotted Oliver slipping out to the terrace with our mate, James. They chatted and laughed, and thenOliver rested a hand on James’ shoulder. Lottie saw it too and went pale. Emily, did you see that? she whispered. Is he? I shrugged. Could just be mates. But Lottie had already made up her mind.
What Happened Next?
After the party, Lottie calmed down but was still gutted. Its not just the rejection, she admitted. I feel like an idiot for not clocking it sooner. Later, word got round that Oliver was indeed in a relationshipwith a man. At first, Lottie was annoyed at herself for missing the signs, but then she laughed it off. Well, at least I know why I wasnt his type! I was starting to think it was me.
Now, Lottie jokes the whole thing taught her not to be so sure of herself. She still flirts, but not as forcefully. And her and Oliver? Theyre actually good mates nowturns out hes a top bloke, just not into women.
Ever been in a spot like this? How do you handle rejection without taking it to heart? Or got any tips on how Lottie could move on faster? Share your storieswed love to hear them!
