Visit from a Friend

by Garylee
(Oshkosh, WI, USA)

Say what you will. I do not care. Your opinion doesn't change my daily life. You're nobody to me, but this is real life. Believe as you wish.

Many years ago in Iowa, where I'm from, I was driving my taxi, and I pulled the night shift for 20 years. On one such occasion, I found a buddy of mine at the gas station acting a bit "off," but didn't think twice. Friends don't question friends. You accept friends unconditionally.

He was out in the parking lot wandering around, as I pulled in. I spoke to him a bit, shooting the bull. He said he wanted to go for a ride so I said "That's cool," I just ended my night's run and was heading home, and always had time to spend with him. So we ran around town for awhile easily talking about old times...and he wanted to go back to the gas station.

I dropped him off and stood outside the car finishing our conversation, and he walked off down the sidewalk. I went into the station to buy a pack of Camels and a Coke. When I found what I wanted, I made my way to the counter, and the gal was acting nervous. I asked, "What's wrong, did she have a bad night with drunks?"

She said no, but was concerned about me standing in the parking lot talking to myself.............