"Two more blocks. Two more, two more, two moooore. Two more blocks and we will be opening the doors to cushioned chairs surrounding a blazing fire that will thaw out the tips of my toes." This runs through my head as I wait for the symbol to change from a big orange hand signaling me to stay on my current side of the road, to the skinny, white man informing me that it might be safe to walk. "Now if only she doesn't wake up, then I'd call this a pretty successful trip to the coffee shop."
Why I looked to my right, I don't know, but maybe if I hadn't the man would have spotted a different victim to stare down until they forged over some cash. He had long, greasy hair that I assume used to be dreadlocks, and ragged clothes. Either he had a very rough night, or he was homeless. As I tried to ignore him, I felt his stare pierce through me and my baby. "Please stop looking at her!" I thought, but didn't dare say incase he took it as a challenge. I wondered why all of the others waiting to cross the street were looking away, very obviously pretending to be oblivious to the current situation. Thanks my fellow citizens.
I quickly grabbed my purse and searched for the one thing I hoped would stop making him look at my baby that way. Lipstick tossed to the right, address book to the left, handkerchief...I was wondering where that went, ah. My wallet. The color of the pink roses would usually remind me of the purchases I make on the objects that make me happy. Instead I was grabbing it in hopes of ridding of the man who was as still as a statue, piercing my child with his gaze. I frantically pulled the thin piece of paper and held it out for the man to take.
When he snached it from my hand and went on his way, my heartbeat slowed and my grip released it deathly hold on the stroller. For what seemed like an hour, the symbol changed and I quickly went on my way to the coffee shop, frazzled from the rush of adrenaline.
No comments:
Post a Comment