walking & running

Colors of fall painted the landscape outside the café window. She was melancholy, for reasons she was more than aware of. The smell of winter’s arrival was blowing in. The grey outside was a swift reminder of exactly what her life had become and it did little to light up the ivory of her skin.

The warm cup of coffee in her hands did little to chase away the cold of her fingers. What has it come to? She thought to herself. Life had turned upside down for her but even now, in the midst of the café that had become part of her morning ritual, she had no emotion. She was empty but there was nothing left to express.

Her thoughts turned to the way things were. The beautiful smile he gave to her and her alone. The goodness of his heart shone bright for her and she was like a moth to a flame. She touched her hand to her cheek. The last thing he had done was kiss her there and swiftly turn from her forever.

She wrapped her silk scarf tightly around her neck before grabbing her coat. Just as she opened the door to face winter’s oncoming her favorite server called back to her, “Have a wonderful day Emma!” It warmed her, “Thanks Adele, you too.” She smiled warmly before heading out into the cold.

The wind had picked up by the time she headed down the street and she dropped her head to avoid the onslaught of nature’s mocking. Suddenly there was a wall in front of her. Startled she began to apologize, “I’m so sorry sir. I wasn’t even paying attention…Daniel.” Shock registered on her face, “I’m so sorry…”

“Don’t worry about it, please excuse me,” his voice without emotion. She smiled nervously, “Of course,” the sadness showing in the corner of her eyes. She walked away from him after that; quickly but as to not give off the impression she was running. When in reality all she could think of was running, as fast as she could.