Red Maple

[serpent1ne]

The day after the Superbowl was generally quiet at the Red Maple Saloon. Most people had blown their cash and at least a week’s worth of calories on the championship game. A few fans might wander in to lick their wounds, but Boston was light on both Broncos and Panthers enthusiasts. As such, Ruby had plenty of time to lean on the bar and crack open peanuts. The bartender’s uniform consisted of a black tank top with a tree screen-printed on the front, jeans, and pair of cowgirl boots. A silver feather pendant dangled in her cleavage. An expensive jukebox played a medley of classic rock hits in the corner. The opening notes of the Eagles’ hit “I Can’t Tell You Why” added to her sense of lethargy.

Comments

[alone_lily]

The snow was coming down heavy and only when it did that Lily noticed how far she had walked from her apartment. The streets and sidewalks were nearly empty except for a few, mostly workers keeping them clear. Her mind had been preoccupied. Mr. Teller was found dead this morning. His lawyer had found him at his house. He had hung himself and left a suicide note.

Nothing worst for a psychologist than to learn a client committed suicide. The worst part was she did not even see it coming. She felt she had failed and it made her question the whole encounter two weeks ago at his house. He fooled me? I know what I saw, but was it real? I have no proof. Was it all in my head? How did I miss it? These thoughts and others repeated over and over.

A big pile of snow blocking the side walk finally stopped her. She was at the Red Maple. It didn’t look like the snow was going to let off any time soon. Her shoulders and hair was covered with flakes. She had left her parka with the hoodie at the office, she just had her overcoat. She was not particularly hungry, but a drink or two might be the thing she needed at the moment. She walked in.

Once inside she brushed off the show. She noticed the place was pretty empty. It didn’t matter and before the hostess asked. “Just having a drink,” she walked to the bar.