big, fat drops to match the bass of the thunder and offset by sharp slices of lightning, dalmationspotting the sidewalk and skittering pedestrians along the eaves.

the ice cream store was tragically closed, so we meandered over to our favorite mexican restaraunt instead. stepping inside, wet and steaming, the air conditioner was a sweetsoft blow between the eyes. split a drink with two bendystraws, fully aware of our syrupsweetness as we gazed droolingly into each other's eyes. we walked back slowly, swinging our arms.

"am i going to see you tonight?"
he hesitates.
"you can say no," i offer, hoping he won't, knowing he will.

taking off my socks when i get home, i discover that my right ankle is bleeding from where my favorite shoes grew fangs overnight.