I volunteer at CVLS offering my legal services to woman in need, founded in 1964, Chicago Volunteer Legal Services (CVLS) is the first and pre-eminent pro bono provider of legal services to those in need. The annual fundraising cocktail party and dinner in the Sinclair Ballroom inside the Waldorf Astoria Chicago Hotel was there biggest event of the year. For over 55 years, CVLS has built a strong relationship with Chicago's court system and judges. Judges in Probate, Chancery and Domestic Relations appoint CVLS to represent parties in complex litigation and to serve as guardian ad litem for children or disabled adults.
Walking down the downtown streets dressed to kill in a Givenchy black dress with slinky black heels on my cute little feet toes painted red was quite a contrast to the crowd on State Street drinking, bar hopping. My long red hair flowing in the the cool autumn air I was thinking about the stories, folklore. my Irish grandparents told me about the night of Samhain and women alone at night.
I waited on the corner for the light to change to cross Illinois Avenue. Stepping off the curb to cross the street my heel broke, stumbling, falling, a strong hand grasp my arm steading me, holding me up. Looking up into dazzling blue eyes framed by wavey grey/white hair, standing very tall, a grey/white beard covering his strong chin. Dressed in a black Armani suit he seemed has out of place has I did.
"Thank you for the assist," I said with a smile.
"Are you alright my dear?" He responded in a deep accent I could not place.
Laughing, I nodded my head, steading my self on his arm to remove my broken heel then the other.
"Guess I'm headed back home for another pair of heels," I laughed standing there barefoot holding my heels.
"I can walk with you if you would like?" He asked. "I'm Alexie," His deep voice ringing in my ears.
"That would be wonderful," Still mesmerized by his elegance, dazzling blue eyes, a true gentleman, I took his arm and pointed the way. "I'm Cheryle," introducing myself. He moved with a grace not seen in other men his voice a deep melody in my ears. I took his arm as we walked down the downtown streets talking, he was very charming. Arriving at my apartment building I turned standing on my tippy toes I kissed his cheek his beard was soft and warm tickling my nose.
"Would you like to come up for a quick drink? While I find a pair of new heels," I asked coly.
"I'm only in town for tonight, but sure a quick drink would be nice..." Reaching out to take his hand. We crossed the lobby to the elevators has we stood waiting I asked, "Are you in the city for business or pleasure?"
"A little of both I think," he said with a wink, his accent was intoxicating bringing strange feelings to all the right places. Entering my apartment I poured him a scotch on the rocks directing him to sit on the sofa. Handing him his drink, there was no thought of finding heels or the party I was suppose to be attending. I sat facing Alexie with my feet under me as we drank scotch and chatted more. Looking at the time I said I have to make at least an appearance at the fundraiser and I ask if he wanted to accompany me.