Words of Love

On their first date, Mike and Mimi, second timers both, drove thirty miles to the Cineplex. After five miles Mike knew.

Not Mimi’s good figure, streaked blonde hair, striking attire. It was her voice. She listened to, remarked, engaged Mike as if he were the only person and they had all the time in the world. Open, direct, Mimi answered Mike’s questions without affect, neither showing off nor discounting herself.

He wanted to hear the music of her graceful, empathic lilt forever. He has, fifty years and counting. So soft and tender. The Mommas and Poppas had it all wrong.