Genesis

CHAPTER 34 Superman Tonight

I could see the bright sunlight that streamed in through my bay window before I was even able to open my eyes. Per usual, I had tossed and turned all night, the peaceful sleep I longed for replaced by increasingly disturbing dreams. This one featured Michael and Ty battling in the Ataroth with swords, Michael's blade appearing to be fashioned out of lightening, Ty's out of fire. Very strange. I forced my eyes open in order to check my phone. Barely able to focus, I could, nonetheless, see that Ty hadn't tried to call or text me during the night. Admittedly, I was surprised. He had told me in the past that he didn't like time to pass with me being angry. Maybe it was different this time since he was the one who was angry.

My ego was bruised. I needed comfort food. I threw on some yoga pants and a long-sleeve, three-button henley and sleepwalked to the bathroom. I brushed my teeth and decided on a Red Sox ball cap instead of a ponytail, although I did run my hair through the hole in back.

Buttery grits. Raisin toast with apple butter. Waffle House.

Ten miles seemed like a hundred as my thoughts centered on Ty. I wondered what he did last night. Knowing how rebellious I am when I'm angry, I pictured him at that karaoke bar, throngs of girls throwing themselves at him after he sang "Love of a Lifetime". Whatever. If that was the case, it was over. I didn't need him. Help me, Joan, I thought. I queued my playlist and found "You Don't Own Me". Perfect.

I couldn't help but survey the parking lot as I pulled into a space under a live oak. The Ferrari was conspicuously missing. I quickly dialed Karen.

"Hey, I woke up hungry and decided to go to Waffle House. Wanna join me?"

"Sounds good. What time?"

"I'm kind of already here. Sorry."

"It's okay. I'll be there in less than fifteen minutes."

"Thanks. I'm still in the parking lot but I'm going to go in and get some coffee if you don't mind. I'm still half asleep."

"Of course. See you in a few."

"See you."

Donna greeted me warmly, as usual, and I took my seat at the counter.

"Hey, darlin'," she said in her gentle drawl. "Where's your other half this mornin'?"

"Your guess is as good as mine," I quipped.

"Well, that doesn't sound good, sweetheart."

"It's fine. Can I have some coffee this morning, Donna. I'm waiting on a friend."

"Abso-tively. Comin' raht up."

"Thank you."

I had just started on my second refill when Karen walked through the door.

"How many cups is that?"

"Only my third."

"You'd better have a few more. You still have marshmallow eyes."

"Another fitful night I'm afraid."

"Those dreams have got to mean something."

"I wish I knew."

"Were you hoping Ty would be here?"

"Maybe."

"You gonna have the usual, Miss Essie?" Donna interrupted.

"Yes, please."