Uncharted Waters

[2Times2Many]

H came back on Wednesday and we haven't had any interaction outside the office, but I am stunned at what I'm seeing.

H is like the old H in the office. He's smiling and joking around with the employees like he used to do. And, they are responding and joking right back. His demeanor towards them is kind, understanding, fun and not at all like the monster he was a year or two ago. It's like night and day. It's the old "boss" - the approachable boss.

As for me, he's been pleasant and friendly. If I walk into his office, he smiles and kind of "lights up" and the smile is a genuine one ... not the fake smile he can give me that isn't sincere. Today, he gave me a silly card that hit the mark and made me laugh.

I am astonished.

He seems relaxed and comfortable. That's a far cry from when he said he felt like a cat in a room full of rocking chairs when he was in the office.

There's an issue that's come up between his parents that BIL should be doing more for, but has apparently left it to H. He's handling it beautifully and it's not an easy task.

It's so refreshing to see and I'm so happy for him. He has been a tormented man for so long and I'm so glad to see him in a calmer state of mind.

I've pretty much just gone about my business as usual at the office, remaining friendly, but business-like, I suppose. I don't feel the "need" to do "something" and that has helped me remain calm, as well.

A couple of notes ...

He ordered some parts to make a minor repair (not operational) on my SUV that's been an issue for a while and plans to take care of that. I didn't ask.

He booked his next trip back and will be here for my birthday, which he missed last year (and I didn't behave well in response). He pointed out to me that he'd be here for my birthday.

He mentioned something about needing a manicure (yes, he does that now). I told him I was planning to go to the nail salon on Saturday and he could tag along if he wanted. So he's doing that with me. He'll be getting his first pedicure after I assured him that I see men in there all the time getting pedicures. It should be fun. His feet are extremely ticklish. He may never do it again!

He asked me about going out to dinner that night and I agreed. Just now, he texted that his parents invited us to go to dinner with them that night and he said he told them he and I were planning to go to dinner. He asked what I wanted to do. I replied it didn't matter to me and I'd leave it up to him. He said he'd rather just the two of us go and I replied I'd like that.

BUT I realize that could be a good thing or a bad thing. I may hear some things I don't like over dinner. I suppose I'll find out tomorrow night. So far the only negative thing I've heard is his plan to renew his lease over there. That was not unexpected. He's still baking.

My bottom line is that he seems to be finding his way and I'm happy for him.

I have no idea what that means for our R or our M. He still has a ways to go. But I know I'll be okay regardless. It's just so nice to see glimpses of old H.

I'm smiling.

Hope everyone has a great weekend.

2T