The conference had been surprisingly fun so far. When my boss asked me to go, I didn’t see why, but the company was paying my way, and I would have some free time to visit with a friend who had moved here a few years ago, so I agreed. Even though it was for industry professionals, and I was just a lowly assistant, I still found the topics useful, and was sure I’d be able to bring some of what I’d learn back to the office.
Now I was all dolled up, eating a fancy dessert after the fancy dinner, and drinking the free drinks, silently listening to the shop talk at the table. The band was getting ready for the dance, and the staff asked us to move tables so they could clear a dance floor. My boss and I stopped at the bar on the way by to refill our drinks.
“I hope you’re having a good time.” It was more of a question. “You’re awfully quiet.”
“That’s because I’m an insufferable introvert.” I laughed. “But I enjoy just listening to the conversation. You don’t need to worry about me.”