It's a game we play you and I. Two people, so comfortable in each other's arms and, with each other's thoughts, pretending to be complete strangers. What is to come, a complete mystery. The only thing predetermined is the location and approximate time. Today, as always, we arrive separately. This time, it's the grocery store.
Our eyes first meet in of all sections, produce. I nonchalantly raise an cantaloupe to my nose, testing its ripeness, its readiness. You flash a mischievous half grin and run your fingers up and down one of the cucumbers in front of you. I die laughing, but keep it on the inside. I suppose I deserved that for picking such an obvious innuendo. No, our encounter will not begin that easily. I regain my composure, turn my back, and walk away.
Soon, the mundane nature of grocery shopping takes over and I find myself absent-mindedly browsing the aisles. Ramen noodles give me flash backs of college as I recall steak being a total luxury. In fact, the noodles back then were even generic. Makes me laugh to think about it now. We meet again, finding ourselves walking in the opposite direction down the same aisle. Glances and nods are exchanged but nothing more.
I find my shopping being placed on the back burner. I walk up and down the edge of the store looking down each aisle. If I happen to catch sight of you, there is always an excuse to join you. Something on each shelf is completely necessary. It's not you I'm after. Our looks begin to linger a little longer with each encounter.
I have already surveyed your left hand. The absence of a ring lets me know you're available. The charade has completely taken over by now. I find myself trying to build up the courage to ask for your number. I never do. Only glance, smile, and continue my shopping.