I took the day off because I wasn't feeling 100%, maybe %95. It was a perfect opportunity to take lunch to my roommate at the library where she worked. I needed to get a little studying done and this was a perfect motivator to get me there. I purchased a thai chicken wrap from Paradise Bakery, got my free cookie and happily drove with the windows down enjoying the fall breeze.
With some determined, yet cumbersome, effort I gathered purse, laptop, book bag and lunch sack in arms and walked towards the building of books. I was stopped abruptly by a questioning stranger, "Do you have cookies in that sack?" I looked up to find a well-dressed man questioning the contents of my lunch. His age was difficult to determine because of his blessed African American heritage...pushing 50 was my guess.
It is at candid moments such as these that my truest self shines through my inhibitions. My response affirmed the cookie's existence with a prompt offering to give it to him. Although a Paradise Bakery cookie is a coveted treasure, I knew I could indulge in the halloween candy I had brought along to help me study. He accepted my offer and I began to awkwardly dig through the bag to recover his gift. He distracted me in my search with the following conversation that ensued:
Him: "How old are you?"
Me: "29"
Him: "Are you married?"
Me answering with some hesitation: "No"
Him: "Are you dating anyone?"
Me wishing that I was dating someone or at least a better liar: "No"
Him: "Can I give you my card?"
Me wondering what sort of business card this might be that would require such questions: "No"
Him: "Not interested?"
Me wishing that rejection was always this easy: "No"
Him: "Well, you are very pretty."
Me feeling flattered: "Thank you."
He walked away leaving both pride and cookie behind.
5 comments:
Wow, I love this story! So Beth. So honest, generous, and he's right...you are very pretty.
baha! this story is altogether akward. hilarious. and making my mouth water. i love you!
Awkward. P.S. Gotta love those Paradise cookies. I've introduced my sisters to the wonders of the Coconut Chocolate Chip.
Oh my goodness. That is an awkward conversation. And the way it went down is somewhat comical. I'm not very good at turning people down. I just feel guilty. it was nice that he offered a card instead. that makes it easier. how funny, love you Beth
Great story! Poor guy, he's missing out on a great gal!
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