|
By jwb71913 Date: 2003 May 20 Comment on this Work [[2003.05.20.16.02.11919]] |
|
I saw her walk in, confident and filled with enthusiasm, eyes bright with anticipation. She sat with her friends at the small table near the back. After a few minutes, the area around her seemed to get quiet, all the men sneaking furtive glances at her. Though not a beauty in the classical sense (well, maybe Ruben's Venus), she had a presence that I'd rarely seen in a woman her age. A quiet buzz of energy seemed to ooze from her, irradiating the entire corner of the room. I had not seen her before, although I frequented the restaurant. She ordered a cheeseburger and a beer, and smiled at the waiter. Then she caught my stare, and flashed one of those genuine smiles that warm you on the coldest Chicago night. I felt my cheeks reddening, and turned back to my date. Over the next few minutes, I watched her eat, and talk with her friends. She was quite animated in her speech, hands flying as she spoke. Then I heard her begin to sing along with the jukebox, soft tones complimenting the Freddie Fender ballad. Her Spanish was flawless, her voice as pure as first snow. I resolved to meet her as I motioned the waiter for the check. I saw her again the next afternoon, arriving before her friends this time, shivering from the February wind. Before she had found a seat, I sent the waitress over to offer her a drink. She smiled and ordered Sangria on the rocks. We became friends, then lovers, and then roommates. Life was good at 24. Until that last night. |