Missed Connections

P.

I was wearing a black dress and black sweater. My hair was up. You were wearing a suit and tie, with your hair slicked back, and your smile easy. At first like all boys, you initiated conversation with my cousins first. They're more social and amicable as opposed to my quieter and more solemn disposition. But you noticed my interest in the art and asked me what drew me to it. We discussed the different artist's styles of paintings, and you told me new things about the painters. I could tell you were in awe of my captivation by the art, especially for someone my age. I could've stood there with you for hours. But my cousins were bored and so I had to leave. We exchanged names and I said I'd come back to the gallery. I saw you again at a seminar the next day. We exchanged a few words and I said I'd see you at the Art Auction. I never showed. I never returned to the gallery. I don't know why. I guess I was scared of what could happen if I actually liked you, and you actually liked me. You were too much older than me I guess. But now, I wish I'd gone when I had the chance. I regret the loss of your companionship.