Part VIII:
I was not made privy to this conversation, but it resulted in a minor chuckle, which both ladies tried to keep disguised behind pursed lips. All this did was add to my frustration. I laid a five dollar bill out on the bar to cover the cost of my beer and tip, then spun around on the stool and made my way out of the establishment. Perhaps it was rude to leave without acknowledging the woman I had been speaking with, but I shall leave it to you to judge whether or not I acted appropriately.
The bar was off the beaten path and as I made my way out onto the street, there was nobody around, save a couple people smoking cigarettes out front. Morlitz street was one of the major intersections through town and was only a few hundred feet to the east. I had a certain spring in my step that evening as I traversed the alleyway. It was a cool evening, so I zipped up my coat and pulled the hood tightly over my ears.
It was shortly after midnight and most of the places were still bustling on the inside, but the streets were quiet. I was finally alone with my thoughts, where I hoped to stay for the remainder of the evening. Sometimes in the company of strangers I find I can not think very clearly. I came to the spot where I had locked my bicycle up earlier and carefully removed the lock. I then hopped on the seat and began my trek home.
To be continued…
