2008

He was buzzing, the thrill and adrenaline of performing still coursing through him as they walked into the bar. Their chatter and laughs mixed in with the others at the bar, all blending into the familiarity and comfort of the pub. The TVs broadcasting an old football game and the clinks of glass all filled the lively space as the band took a few the open seats at the bar.

After a round of shots and a bottle or two of beer, the bar started to simmer a bit. Less were coming in the bar, more were leaving. The rowdiness slowly paced down to something more tranquil, or as tranquil as a bar could get. That’s when he finally caught her. Sat just on the adjacent side of the bar, he forget the impoliteness of staring for a moment. He was quick to remember his manners though, diverting his gaze to the TV above her on the wall.

Maybe if the circumstances were different, he might’ve gone up to her but he felt obligated to be with the band after the show, staying rooted in his seat as he engaged in mindless talk. But his eyes kept straying and his attention wandered. She was alone. Pretty too. The fluorescent lights and the illumination from the TV screen highlighted every feature he found himself drawn too. Especially the way the light naturally reflected off her eyes.

With a nudge from Miles, Alex jumped back to reality, tearing his eyes away from the girl. Miles gave a knowing look, eyebrows raised in suspicion and amusement. Alex frowned, assuming he’d hear this was a missed opportunity.

“Go, mate. Whatcha waiting on?” Miles laughed, nudging Alex again as he gestured towards the girl. Alex hesitated for a moment, silently asking for another word of permission. With a small nod from Miles, he was already out of his seat.

He slid into a seat near hers, leaving one seat in between — ever the gentleman in case she rejected his advances — and stole glances at her as the bartender approached him.

“I’ll have one of whatever she’s having,” he prompted, gesturing towards the girl with a warm inviting smile.