realized that my head was on Chuck's shoulder. I guess that I had unconsciously moved over toward him during the long ride. I started to move away, at the same time uttering a feeble apology, but found myself pressed close to him. His arm was clutched around my shoulder. I had tried to move over before I realized that he was looking down at me and grinning.
"You don't have to move," he said. He held me close and chuckled to himself. "Boy, do you know how to sleep, you are just like a little kitten when you're cuddled up next to me like that. I kind of enjoyed it. For some strange reason, I felt that you needed protection. It's not often that I feel drawn to someone like I have to you."
To say that I was not attracted to him too would have been a lie. I was, and I couldn't even think of a good reason why I should have been.
The truck pulled over into the trees and the air brakes screamed as Chuck stopped the truck.
"I'm getting sleepy too," he said and nestled down in the seat beside me. I felt his hand press mine as I gazed down at him. Slowly his lips parted and his arm came up to encircle my neck. He slowly pulled me down to his lips. Instead of pulling away, I was excited by his kiss and responded to him. Then I drifted into nothingness as I saw his face flash before me.
I often remember that night as I travel the highway. I wonder what would have happened had I gotten out of the truck and walked the remaining distance into town. Or rather, what would have happened had Chuck not stopped to give a lonely pickup a ride.
"Paul, I'm ready."
"OK, Chuck, be right with you." We drive on the same run now that I'm out of college. We found happiness in the cab of a truck that night and I never want to lose it.
one
SMALL TALK
I watched his face
Across the table, and
Longed to touch it;
To caress it with loving hands.
In silent adoration
I breathed love words,
And with my eyes I
Touched his every part.
His face lifted;
His eyes met mine,
His lips parted, and he asked If I had read the headlines.
Victor J. Banis
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