Conversations with Strangers

Scene Setting:  Wine Bar, London, Springtime.

I stand with my attractive friend Marie looking around terrace hoping to find a table, drinks in hand.  Two English guys hogging a table for four shout over, 

 ”Here would you like to share with us?”  ONLY IN ENGLAND, I think.

We go over taking our olives and nuts with us which we offer in exchange for chairs.  We start chatting – the proximity is such that it would be rude not to. 

“So who are you then?” I ask the one on my side of the table, Peter.  “Don’t worry, I’m not chatting you up, I’m happily married,” I add hastily, seeing the fear in his eyes.

“Where’s your wedding ring then?” He replies as directly.  ONLY IN ENGLAND, I think again.

“I never wear one.  I didn’t think anyone noticed.”

“Oh yes.  That and a girl’s shoes.”

I automatically look down at my scuffed boots even though I am married.

Paul, sitting opposite me starts talking about a Tarot Card reading he’d had that day.

“He immediately, within 5 seconds of seeing me told me I need to be more proactive.”

“Hmm.  You probably hesitated about which chair to sit on,” says Marie.

“And that I need to be more patient WHICH IS SOOOOOO TRUE.”

“Well, I hate to burst your bubble,” continues Marie about to cause his to explode, “but probably 95% of the people in that room could be more proactive and patient.”

“It’s all suggestopedy,”  I say convincingly.

“Oh that is such a made-up word!” He replies with a loud guffaw.  “Although I understand what you mean.”

 (It is.  I discover to my shame on returning home…)

“I know it sounds like one,” I say trying to sound even more convincing “that is why so many people are afraid to use it.”

The subject changes.  Our teenage daughters arrive, they gallantly buy them cokes and we chat some more before saying hearty thanks and lovely to meet yous and running off into the night.

Only in England.