The one I always wanted

'What? Right now?'

'Yes,' Smiths said, 'and I just happened to be on my way out. See you later, Alfie.'

'Sure, see you later,' I said, abstractedly, suddenly beginning to perspire despite the chill morning air. I brushed a hand through my hair, put on a mask of suave assurance, and began rehearsing what I was going to say: 'Oh, this is just the moment I'd been waiting for all these years, Sharon; we were meant to be together; I'm yours!'; or 'Oh, darling, take me in your arms; I adore you; let's ride off into the sunset!'; or perhaps, 'I've been fantasizing about you, too. . .just let me put out my cigar, my dear, and let's go out on the town.'

I was still on the front porch, fretting back and forth, when Sharon finally came into view. She was wearing a rose-colored dress, tastefully cut, that rippled slowly in the cool autumn wind. Her auburn hair cascaded down her back like so much silk, teasing the skin of her supple shoulders. I could just imagine the many nights of warmth, companionship, and sensuality that lay beyond.

'Hello, Alfie,' she said as she drew near.

'Hello, Sharon,' I said slowly, as if not trusting my voice to speak.

'Alfie, I know you know why I'm here. I saw Smiths walk away as I came down the street.'

I stood looking directly into her deep, oaken irises. 'Yes. I know.'

'Smiths is out of my life, Alfie. I never liked him, though I said I did; it was always you I wanted. I'm a single woman, Alfie. . .and being here with you in this brisk morning air, I see the reason why. Will you. . .'

'No, Sharon,' I said. 'I won't.'