Before Sunset

Trixie was very good to me when Wilma left (left me). She listened while I talked about it. Called to make sure I was ok. Came over to hang out a few times. Invited me to hang out with her band of cougars. Came with me to see movies and hear concerts that she would not have otherwise.

One time, when we were both high and drunk, she even got me dancing. Apparently we dance for three straight hours. But, still being me while high and drunk, we didn't actually touch each other, except for once, when I put my hand on her hip. It was enough to make me take a deep breath, right there on the dance floor, and every time I think about it.

I slept in her bed twice, but not with her. Her under the covers and me on top. Even then, we didn't snuggle or cuddle or anything. When we got up, we went for breakfast and talked more.

I think the biggest thing was that she talked to me about her life. About how she was tired of keeping secrets from her ex-boyfriend; about her one experience with knifiness; about how she was tired of late-night booty calls; about how her and her mother had a terrible relationship; about how worried she was about her brother; about how she really liked this guy, Lucky (the leprechaun).

And I got to give her advice, or just listen, depending. And she listened to my advice, and told me that I was a good friend for listening.

Meanwhile, as Wilma's departure spread through the ranks at work, a rumour about Trixie and I having an affair gained momentum. Neither of us addressed it directly, however, several people approached me about how I should consider a relationship with Trixie, and that it might be a good idea. Trixie reported the same. But we dismissed it as meddling.

And now that I recall, there was one night when she asked me flat out if I was falling in love with her. Huh. I had forgotten about that. I said no, and she said good, ok.

Huh.