Reflections

by Judith Bakkensen

 

I saw him ahead on the trail.  He had two beautiful dogs running unleashed beside him.  My friend slowed her bike as we scooted by.  I caught a glimpse of his face. 

 

This man lives in a small wooden house up from the river.  He is a writer.  His days are free flowing yet he has the discipline to write six hours a day.  He takes the weekend off.  His name is Elden Walters.  He writes standing up most of the time and likes to jump rope to stay in shape.

 

Many women have shared his bed, but he loves his current life too much to care to compromise.  But there is a women he is seeing.  She is changing him.  She is winding around his spine and nibbling gently at his heart.  He is having strange thoughts like living together, commitment; what is she doing right now?  Is it too soon to call her again?  As he walks his dog, he feels a sudden warmth sear through his body.  It was the thought of her.  He stands in awe. His dogs come next to him and sit facing him.

 

My friend stopped her bike and said,  "Did you notice that man back there?" 

"Yes.  I don't know him." I said.