The Perfect Encounter

The skies were gray, and the air was crisp. The leaves had begun to fall and rustle in the wind. Many serenaded my feet as I walked along the cobblestone. I watched as they danced along the path with me. As I trotted along, the padded soles of my new leather boots gave me a soothing comfort. I could barely feel the crunch of the leaves beneath my feet. I was in a hurry to get my favorite cup of pumpkin spice cider before it’s seasonal finale.  I made my way to the counter and noticed a tall dark-skinned man sitting off in the corner. He wore a black wool flat cap and a matching pea coat. Cafe Le Monde has always been the happening café, but today it was my treasure. I could not believe my eyes.

I grabbed my cider and made my way to a table close to the gentleman. I did not want to be conspicuous, so I tucked away at a nearby adjacent table facing the window. I could still hear him and see him quite clearly. I was dying to speak at this point. My heart was racing and the butterflies in my stomach would not stop fluttering. I waited all my life for this encounter. His British accent just floored me. I listened as he talked to the woman that sat across from him. His hand gestures with her were rather friendly, yet I could tell she was not a love interest. He smiled as he talked, taking quick glances around the café looking to see if anyone had noticed him. Every few minutes he would scan the room like a laser. I was sure he had caught me staring, but he never acknowledged it. He leaned back in his chair then he stood to take off his coat. His burnt orange waffle lattice sweater matched his Ralph Lauren polo boots perfectly! As he retrieved his cell phone from his pocket; he shook his pants legs to adjust himself. He looked down then lifted his head as he glanced directly at me.

Before I knew it, he was walking in my direction. I quickly turned away and began to stare out the window. That did not stop his approach. I could feel his presence. As he approached the smell of bergamot lingered in the air. All of a sudden, I felt a soft brisk breeze. There he was at the side of my table. He spoke, “Hello Madame, I couldn’t help but notice you. Do you mind if I take a picture with you?” Was he serious? Is this some kind of joke? Him take a picture with me? All I could do was smile and nod. Finally, I convinced my mouth to speak. ‘I would love to take a picture with you.’ As I arose from the table he reached for my cell, then handed it to the woman who had made her way over to my table. She snapped a couple of pictures and returned the phone.  She walked away as he began to speak, “There you are. Have a nice day. What’s your name?” Astounded, I told him my name and he bid me ado. “Good day.” I smiled still standing there in shock. As he walked away I thanked him nervously. I would never forget this day ever. I returned to my pumpkin spice cider it was still sultry now nostalgic. My day had been made.

Copyright © 2018 Queen Kenya

Photos courtesy of the Internet