My nameless female friend, pre-pandemic, late night in Ybor

Tampa FL

Description

We met each other in a loud, overcrowded, extraordinary bar. You were dressed largely in black. Late 30s, early 40s is my guess, though you looked younger. We were both alone, or at least, I was, and you seemed to be as well. Chance eye contact, a wave, a shared drink, a short conversation. We didn't stick together but we crossed paths several times throughout the night. You kissed me on the cheek once as you walked by. Playful flirtation. We both stayed until closing time, ended up walking out next to each other. There was an unspoken invitation hanging in the air from both of us; neither took the other up on it. One more brief glance, an exchange of bemused smiles, and we went our separate ways. If only.