Bitter Coffee

Through tinted glass, I see cars have lined up outside, like a java-thirsty snake who waits to strike at the employee working the drive-through window. I take a last dreg of coffee, then vacate the table for another caffeine addict to indulge in some dark-roast creation, while reaching into my purse for keys. Someone touches my shoulder and I turn. Out of aromatic filled haze, her soft voice speaks into my ear, using my maiden name, which seems foreign to my own ears. It comes as a riddle, with question mark at the end, as if it were floating inside a bubble. dust motes mingle with the steam of French roast coffee.... someone drops a spoon She slips into the empty place across from me, and I see familiar, but strikingly older, hazelnut eyes. They hold something unsettling, sad and seem peppered with weight. But she shows me a wan smile buried in a sea of nerves. She was an old friend, a good chum. How long has it been? Just as I am about suggest a plan, a date to meet for lunch, she's running late, and must hurry, and has started closing the gate again. espresso ripples with element of surprise .... an old acquaintance We walk out together, ... I open the door for her, while she carries two capped coffees, and starts to head across the lot. We say a quick goodbye, I take care not to spill her load, as I gently hug her goodbye. She walks away in a rush, climbing into faded red truck. An unsmiling tight-lipped man , reaches over to the inside latch to open the door, that seems to be missing a handle on the outside. I hear a harsh, husky voice ask "What took so long?",.. loud enough that a few people glance their way. She smiles weakly, and doesn't look back to say goodbye. under old tires leaves are crushed into small bits... a whirlwind of dust my cell phone vibrates someone misses me from home .... sun breaks through the clouds _________________ 11/2/15 For Contest: Creative Haibuns Sponsor Charlotte Jade Puddifoot