The Note

Chapter 13

I came barreling into the music store and went straight to my boss to apologize for being 10 minutes late. To my great appreciation, she let it slide. I'm usually a punctual person. I begin stocking the shelves and hear the jingle of the bell above the door. I pay no attention because I l know that Vicky, the storeowner will take care of it.

"Can I help you with anything, dear?"

"No, ma'am. I think I can find it. Thank you."

That voice was familiar . . . Michael. I walk up the aisle and try to dart into the back room. I am crossing the next aisle when I notice him standing there, not even a foot away. I look, meet his eye, and turn my head in shame of the tears. I extend my foot to make a get away, when I feel a hand on my shoulder. I turn around in shock.

"Look, I need to talk to you. I'm not mad, I just really need to talk."

I open my mouth to speak, but feel as if my mouth was as dry as the Sahara.

"I know you're scared to face me, I get that. I just need to get an answer. That's all. And you can continue avoiding me."

I notice that an slight tone of pain turns up in the last half of his sentence.

"Okay."

"Look, I know it's your favorite place, and you feel comfortable there; can we meet at the swings tomorrow?"

"Sure, but I can meet you after work today if you aren't busy practicing."

"Okay, I'm not practicing. I came home for a break."

I give a slight smile and a nod and mumble what was halfway a goodbye.