The smell of autumn was in the air, as the gentle breeze kissed my cheeks. Strolling through the farmer's market on an early Saturday morning, the sun was just starting to emerge. The rays of light dancing around me, I couldn't think of a better place I'd rather be. Strong, fresh brewed coffee in hand, I passed the vendors, who were still putting out the newly made trinkets, paintings, floral displays, and the like.
I spied another perfume merchant, and let out the familiar sigh. My thoughts already went where I didn't want them to go. Damn. Why must he always find a way in? His cologne, not available in the US anymore, never stops me from hoping I will someday find it. I'd given up on the shopping malls, but never explored this avenue. The vendor was not American, so maybe he does carry it. What the hell.
"Do you have Versace?" I asked tentatively.
"Yes, we have a few," he answered, pointing to the section on the left. I see the same ones that the stores carry, nothing out of the ordinary.
Then, suddenly...is it? I notice the blue cylinder when I hear myself gasp, similar to discovering money in a winter coat from last season. "Is that Blue Jeans Man??" I ask, my voice an octave higher than I anticipated.
He hands it to me, and I am beaming, as if I was just given the winning lottery ticket. I rummage through my purse, pay the man, and head to my car. I slide into the seat, close the door, and pull the shiny bottle out of the container. Removing the cap, I place the tip under my nose, deeply inhaling the spicy aroma. "Oh, God..." This is what he smells like. I'm already wet. My eyes glaze over and my thoughts wander...... no intention of changing course.