To the left of me are a group of young girls: all high heels, cocktails and jangly necklaces. They waved to me cheerfully when I entered the bar, mistaking me for one of their number. There’s now a slightly embarrassed air between us, but I’m sure it will fade as the drinks flow.
In front of me is a couple, a relatively new couple from the looks of it. They are flirting quietly with eyes full of sweetness and fresh hope. They both look happy.
To the right of me is a lucky man. He is surrounded by three pretty blondes. Like the couple, he also looks happy but rubs his mouth nervously when he speaks. I suspect he is the younger brother of one.
And I’m the wanker sitting by myself, tapping away at my iPad.
My husband has to work tonight so I’m enjoying a rare night out completely alone: no husband, no baby, no friends, and no family. I have a beer and my thoughts to keep me company. It feels… decadent.
Now I mean no disrespect to my gorgeous friends and family, I just occasionally enjoy flying solo. It’s such a rare treat for me now. I intend on cherishing every moment here.
The bar is busier than I expected for a Wednesday night. There’s the usual cacophony of noise – ambient music, chatter that will inevitably get louder, and ice being shaken vigorously behind the bar.
Friends reminisce, make each other laugh, and hug warmly as they prepare to leave. Once they do, another set of friends swiftly replace them. The alcohol eases everyone’s conversation and laughter abounds.
The bar is a bubbling sea of human happiness and I’m enjoying bobbing along in it.
Cheers everyone!
Nice read and a pleasant momentary escape.
Hope you won’t mind if I live vicariously through your solo night out. It’s been too long since I’ve had one of those.
Jesse
I’ve been trying to remember my last one and simply cannot. All I know is it’s been over three years ago. THREE YEARS. Maybe get someone to mind your children and just do it too! Even for a few hours. I highly recommend it.