By Philip Lear
I met Sue in English class where she sat a few seats over. She was always neatly dressed in striking colors that accentuated her sharp features. We started by exchanging glances and casual smiles, and gradually started talking. These were casual conversations, nothing more. But I could feel the tug of her chemistry. There was something about her that drew us together. I wanted to go out with her, but tried to keep it on a friendly basis. No fancy dinners or movies. I wanted to take it slow.
For our first date we agreed to go to the Bronx Zoo. It was a beautiful place with interesting things to see and talk about. It was warm and sunny as we passed through the front gate. We strolled past the elephants and the rhinos and then watched the lions basking in the sun. As we walked, we kidded about the various animals, exchanging glances and small talk as we went. We ended up in front of the Snake House.
"Look!” She said enthusiastically, pointing to a poster. "The snakes of South America."
I hated to put a damper on things. So I didn’t say anything about my dislike for snakes.
As we walked through the aisles, there were dozens of displays containing snakes of all sizes and shapes in beautifully lit exhibits. With each new display that we came to, she became more and more animated,
"Oh, look at the colors of this one! Look at the stripes on this one!"
And, as she became increasingly excited, I felt fainter. Finally, when I couldn't take it anymore, I sat down on a concrete bench. She was so involved in the exhibits that at first didn't notice. But when she did turn around and saw me on the bench, she came right over.
"Jack, are you all right?"
I shook my head.
She put her hand on my chin and raised my head. "Oh my! Your eyes aren't focusing. Let me get you out of here."
She helped me outside and we sat near a fountain. After a few minutes, I started to recover.
"I didn't realize you were so affected by snakes," she said.
"You seem to be enjoying it so much. I didn't want to spoil it for you. When I was a kid a Copperhead bit me and I nearly died. Sitting there in that snake house brought it all back."
“Oh poor Jack. Look at what I’ve put you through.”
As we walked toward the exit, she put her hand in mine.
“Is your place near here?” She asked.
“A few blocks,” I said pointing to the right.
“Let’s go there.”
I pulled her close and she responded by putting her arm around my waste as we dreamily walked on.