It is a warm and pleasant day considering that it is December 30th. Everyone is just getting over the Christmas holiday and rushing about in preparation for New Years Eve. NYC is bursting with energy today!
I am making excellent progress from Canal Street to my destination of Di Palo Fine Foods on Mott Street. I am thoroughly enjoying watching the people walking around me and the palatable feeling of happiness that seemed to be filling the air.
I'm reveling in the sights and sounds, although I am from the Island I always felt comfortable here, like I was meant to be running around this particular neighborhood. After all, my Dad was born just 2 blocks from here. Oddly enough he was born in the same house that his grandmother died, on the same day, just hours apart. We are native New Yorkers.
I am reviewing my menu for the event and am mentally composing a list of the things that I need to get. As I approach the store an elderly gentleman opens the door for me with a courteous smile. I tell him, "thank you" and I walk through the door. The market is relatively crowded and I am trying to pick out all of the items I need. Provolone, prosciutto, pepperoni, roasted red peppers, soppressata, fresh mozzarella, and the best Italian bread that is made out side of Italy.
As I am waiting for service I feel the close proximity of someone to my rear. You know, when someone is invading your space without seeing. Sometimes you can just tell that someone is staring you down or just closer than is acceptable.
As the hair on my spine starts to prickle, I tense up ready to do what ever is necessary to protect myself.
Suddenly I pick up a familiar scent and about the same second I hear a very familiar voice, more of a whisper, saying "You have bound my heart with subtle chains, so much pleasure that it feels like pain."
I spin around so excitedly that I nearly push him over! It was my favorite lover, Dave.
I am practically jumping out of my skin as I say "Oh, I am so happy to see you! What are you doing here?"