Have U ever been lonesome?
So if there is a young-good-looking-guy in the group, like the one tonight, he soon gets the idea and, Well, I have to go. He says, in a loud voice to no one in particular.
Is not 9: 30 yet, a woman says.
I get up early. Young-good-looking-guy retorts.
Do you? woman hopeful, maybe she can engage him in conversation.
Yeah! blushing. My three year old is not a late sleeper. And turns to go.
But the woman intercepts him before he reaches the door. Introduces herself and starts pouring all her accomplishments on him, I’m an excellent cook, I’m learning computers. They are the thing of the future, they say. Do you know computers?
Ana can see her as she moves closer. The woman is young, late twenties maybe, eyes wide open, lips trembling. Overwhelmed. Talking fast, hanging on.
Ana can see him, elegant sports jacket and slacks. Uhmm, she nudges Linda, to find she’s got her eye on him also.
But a three year old? Ours are already on their way to High School. Linda whispers.
Ana nods her agreement adding, he really wants to run out. But her. Poor thing. Maybe she had too much wine.
Do you like massages? Young woman in earnest. When they are done with care, gentleness? You would enjoy it.
No. NO. I don't think so. And he walks out the door.
Meantime, in the living room a little group has formed on the couch. Three women giggle. You know? one starts, I put my hand like this on the side of .............Where is hope? Only in our hearts? How then to keep it alive? Will humor and imagination do.............? What do you think?
Next Sunday 5th and last of this short fiction.




