Where would you take this story?

Night fell and with it my spirits. Awaiting me was nothing more than an empty apartment, a television devoid of any real entertainment, leftover Chinese takeout that might or might not be palatable, and magnified solitude. With no real excuse to linger and yet no desire to rush, I wandered without direction or thought through the dampened streets of the city. The darkness enveloped me as did the mists which slowly surrendered to nature's law of gravity and I wrapped my overcoat more securely around myself as if it could repel the seeping moisture or the weight of my thoughts. The sidewalk, which during the light of day was burdened by the weight of many, now stretched silent before me but for an occasional scurry of nocturnal creatures both human and otherwise. Weakened streetlamps created more shadowed refuge for those who'd do harm than safe passage for the innocent and unwary.

As I walked, I thought of the life I'd carved out for myself with pure determination and wits. Certainly, I was intelligent and capable but in this world I'd chosen there were many more such men always waiting to take my place. Sometimes I think I'd gladly give it to them if it meant that I'd find the contentment which always eluded me despite my successes. Comfortable with myself, I'd never felt the need for permanent companionship preferring instead to sate my desires and move on with no entanglements. Though admired and often sought after, I'd yet to meet any woman who could move me to an extent that I'd wish for her continued presence in my life. I'd never felt the lack of an emotional connection with another but, then again, would I recognize that need in myself? Suddenly, I wasn't sure. My life had always been about me; pursuing, achieving, testing my abilities, always with a one dimensional intent striving to reach the goals I'd set for myself.

Ahead of me, a stretch of sidewalk with all it's evidence of current human activity and indifference was exposed by the light of a neighborhood tavern. Having ambled without awareness, I sought out the signage to get my bearings and realized I was in a neighborhood not on my list of preferred locations. Growing closer into the suffused light, I paused and considered entering the establishment to dry out and find diversion from the serious contemplation which had taken hold of my thoughts. Too often lately, I found myself in such contemplation and the likelihood of escaping the quagmire tonight as opposed to any night prior was unlikely. Resolving whatever ate at me was not going to be an easy task when I couldn't identify any reason for feeling as I did. I had the perfect life I'd wanted and achieved with goals still to tempt and inspire me, so why the discontent?

Following temptation, I stepped inside the tavern not expecting to find anyone familiar and upon scanning the room realized my calculations were correct. Unknown to anyone, the anonymity would allow me respite and distraction without being intruded upon. Locating a table, I made my way across the room avoiding eye contact and encouraging unwanted attention. From the darkened corner near the bar emerged a waitress intent on my direction. Unable to see her clearly in the distance, I studied her as she leisurely approached my area noticing little more than the graceful movement of her silouhette. Growing closer, her shape revealed itself as did my body's natural reaction to it. Ignoring the urge, I glanced away not looking towards her again until she'd stopped at my side; even then choosing to focus on the pad she held in her slender fingers. Until, that is, she spoke; her voice softly accented, sultry and unpretentious, causing sensations I didn't recognize and a surprising curiosity which brought my eyes up in search of her own. Again, she spoke and I struggled against the fog enshrouding my senses and was able to order a cup of tea without further unaccustomed embarrassment to myself. With a slight lift to one corner of her delicate lips, she thanked me and returned in the direction from which she'd come. Watching her walk away........