I make my way through familiar territory, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells that make me feel like I’m home. It fills me with peace and a small smile plays around my lips as I think of my destination.
As I reach my turn on the road and head on toward the small bar located along the shadows, my mind fills with thoughts of what I need, want, desire. I pull my cloak closer as I get nearer, laughing to myself about ghede and the chill that invades all that walk close.
I soon reach my destination and enter into the warmth and noise of the bar. I make my way to my favorite table noting that it was already occupied. I smile as my companion slides a glass toward me.”Joyeux anniversaire”, he says. I smile wryly.”what’s another year?”I ask. He smiles and refills our glasses.”Another year with you amoureux, is time well spent.”I laugh.”yeah, I’m gonna call bullshit on that”. My companion laughs.”that’s one of the things I like about you, never afraid to speak plainly..accune crainte”. Again I laugh.”No fear? I live my life terrified about everything. I just wear a mask so others don’t see it”. “Je suis d’accord”, he nods.”most people wear masks. This is that time of year n’est pas?”I laugh and take another drink. I’ve lost count of the drinks, but tonight is about something other than prudence. The band is playing a lovely tune, some are dancing and I find myself relaxing from the atmosphere. Yeah, this is where I’m supposed to be, even if I doubt myself, hear the mutterings of others who question the relationship. “Allons-nous passer a calmer quelque part?” He asks. I nod and we move to private quarters to finish our conversation, and a copious amount of rum. Today I awoke more settled, and astonishingly with no hangover. Joyeaux anniversaire to me. Here’s to purpose and less need for masks. VIVE