Maybe This Time

"Oh my God, why are you so difficult Michelle? Come on, it's just dinner. I have met the guy and I think he's really nice, plus Matt is vouching for him. He is Junior partner at their law firm, single and loaded!" Leslie shoved the phone in Michelle's face with a picture of her boyfriend, Matt standing next to a guy she is trying to fix her up with - Jeff. He looks cordial, blonde and with a friendly smile, but... "I appreciate the thought, but I am not looking to date"   "When was the last time you went on one?" Leslie was pushing it. "Which is how I like it. End of discussion. For all you know I might have turned into a lesbian. Just please, Les, just drop it" Michelle said with an exasperated sigh. "Okay, I'll make you a deal. Just go to dinner, just this once. Please, this will be the last time I will fix you up with anyone. If this does not work out, I will tag you as a lost cause. Just please give this a chance" Leslie pleaded. "Fine. You know I am doing this because I love you, right? But you promise, no more blind dates, no more fix-ups, or else I'm going to cut your hair in your sleep." Michelle joked. She can never deny Leslie. She is the sister, the family that Michelle never really had. "Perfect! Meet you at Avelina's in 2 hours. Wear something nice that show off that nice bod!" She swatted Michelle's backside. "You need help closing up?" "No, I can finish up here. You can go ahead. 2 hours getting ready won't be enough for you. I'm about done with inventory anyways so shoo and go away!" With that, Leslie pecked her on the cheek and said their goodbyes.  After half an hour, Michelle scanned her little book store. It took her 2 years before finally deciding to open it. This is after she met Leslie. They started as roommates and she cannot help but get infected with Leslie's positive energy.  Everyday, she is still uncertain if this is a good idea. For 3 years, she has been to several towns, cities, country - she is always on the move. She feels it is not safe to stay put at any one place for a long time. But now, she is tired. It's been a long 5 years, and maybe, just maybe, this will be her life, finally. She turned off the shop lights except the display window and locked the door. One last glance, she smiled to herself. This is good, she thinks. She wrapped her jacket closer to her body as the night wind is getting chillier. It's a 15 minute walk to the apartment she used to share with Leslie. As she was about to enter she was stopped by a voice that has haunted her for the past 5 years. "Hello SOPHIA......."