“Don’t mention it. Listen, since it’s so crowded in here, do you mind if I share a table with you?”
We were the only customers in the place. The teen looked at me foolishly.
“No, I don’t mind. I’m surprised to see so many people in here at this time of day. Besides, it’s vitally important to share. That’s one of the first things we’re taught as children.”
“By the way, my name is Yardley. Yardley Brown.”
We shook hands.
“Rayne Waters.”
The game continued after we sat down by the window.
“So Rayne, what do you do for a living?”
“I work at the First Community Bank. Customer Relations Specialist.”
“Aw, I happen to have an account there.”
“Really?” Rayne giggled. “Small world.”
“Very, very small world.”
“How do you pay your bills?”
“I’m a chiropractor.”
“Wow, I’ve never met a chiropractor before. You help people improve their posture and straighten their spines?”
“Among other things. Maybe I can show you my office one day. You might find it interesting.”
“I’m sure I would.”
Both of us picked at our bagels. I don’t think it was bad nerves, but excitement. At least that’s what it was on my part.
“Can I be frank?” I asked her.
“I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
“You’re the most beautiful sister I’ve seen this year.”
She leered at me like she thought I was full of shit.
“Hmm, I guess it’s a good thing you saw me this year.”
“Why’s that?”
“If I’m the most beautiful for only this year, then last year’s competition must’ve been fierce.”
“Well, I didn’t want to use the ‘in my entire life’ line because I figured you wouldn’t believe me.”
“But I’d believe a year is more reasonable?” she asked sarcastically. “Besides, we’re barely into this one so you’ll probably still find someone more beautiful.”
“You’re a clever girl!” I couldn’t withhold my laughter. “I can see I’m going to have to watch what I say around you.”
“Only for the next fifteen minutes. Then, I’ll walk out that door and I guess we’ll never see each other again.”
The mere thought of her walking away sent a chill through me. The only plus was that I knew exactly where to find her if she did.