Cassie Longstreet, my 26 year old sister, lives with her partner of two years Katie Kenwood in a 4th floor apartment overlooking Washington Square park in Greenwich Village.
Five years out of the closet, her revelation had come as a huge surprise to the family. How does a girl who was popular with boys and who dated her fair share of them turn out to be lesbian? As I recall, it took our parents a long time to come to terms with Cassie's sexual orientation.
I did benefit from having an older sister to pave the way for me. When I came out 6 months ago back in January my parents could accept my reality without reservation. Though coming out was not easy for me, it did not go badly.
Anyway, a Saturday afternoon finds me sitting at Cassie's and Katie's dining table sipping beer from a mug while engaged in girl talk. That day was to become a turning point in my life.
I knew Chelsea Preston but only superficially. Much of what I did know about her came through chit chat or the grapevine.
Cassie spoke freely for a couple of minutes.
"Stephanie you and Chelsea would be good for each other."
I asked, "what is she into."
"Softball," said my sister.
Hearing that brought me back in time. Though I hadn't played since college, I still can enjoy watching a game. Maybe she and I can enjoy a game together. There's room for two on my sofa.
My sister and her partner never struck me as matchmakers. In fact, the subject never even came up until that day.
Though out, I was not dating anyone nor could I see myself frequenting lesbian bars. The only thing I did know is that I'd rather take a chance with my heart than have one night with a girl whom I may never see again.
A half hour passed then my sister's phone rang.
"I'll be right down."
I looked at Katie who read my mind.
"She's not unattractive," said Katie.
Chelsea Preston came inside one step ahead of Cassie. She is 5 7 with modest breasts. Short blond hair touches the tops of her shoulders. She has full coral pink lips. She is wearing a Santorini blue tank top with tie dye blue pants and stacked block-healed booties
Chelsea and I immediately struck up a long winded conversation that seemed to exclude Cassie and Katie. It soon became clear to my sister and her partner that we hit it off.
Chels, it turns out, devotes a lot of time and energy to keeping herself fit. A long run through Washington Square Park has been her routine for years.
"Stephanie are you into running?"
"No but I rollerblade," I replied.
"I'll run and you can skate at my side."
I like that idea. I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship.
Washington Square Park is a rectangle, its long sides stretching north west. It's perimeter is an asphalt track. A circular common in its center is traversed by some narrow walkways. Several dog owners are there with their pets.