A Shadow on the Shore
It was autumn, late evening, and the sound of my steps crunching the brown leaves reminded me of loneliness. I intended to go straight home after work, but the view of the sea was far more attractive. I glanced at my watch. 8 pm. I sat on the wooden bench by the shore and decided to listen to music, leaving my thoughts to wander around distant and strange places. My gaze got lost following the soft line of the horizon as it separated blue and orange colors.
From the corner of my eye, I caught a shadow moving towards me, a confusing scent accompanying it. I analyzed the smell — a spicy mixture of citrus and wood. I turned and faced a man smiling at me. His black hair contrasted his pale skin which was now turning to a sweet yellow shade, reflecting the evening light. He pointed at the empty seat next to me.
“Do you mind?” His gleaming, brown eyes looked straight into mine.
I told him I didn’t and returned to my music — Mogwai’s Take Me Somewhere Nice was now playing on my list. A sudden movement distracted me. I looked at him folded over his lap, tapping his fingers rhythmically, his mouth forming the lyrics. Maybe I play my music too loud?
For some reason, I found this intrusion amusing, and laughed. His eyes crinkled in surprise, and for a moment, we stared at each other smiling.
