Page 8 of Sweet Love From Saturn

“Good night, Saturn.”

Once the call ended, I jumped on the internet to see where I could purchase an alarm system and security cameras. The cameras I had were ones I’d had for years now. Women were an easy target to sick muhfuckas, and Saturn’s small ass didn’t stand a chance against a man, let alone an armed one.

“Good morning, beautiful,”I said as Saturn walked up to the booth.

“Good morning. I thought I’d beat you here,” she said as she glanced at the watch on her wrist.

“I got here a few minutes early to make sure we got a table. I had a feeling it would be a little crowded in here.”

“It usually is. I used to walk over here almost every day. I only stopped because I’d be waiting in line for too long. That’s when I started going to Steve’s.”

“We’ll have to go there next. So how was your night? Did you sleep well?” I asked.

“I did. It takes a while for me to fall asleep, but once I put on the noise machine, I’m out.”

“I may need to invest in one. I don’t like sleeping with the TV on, but I need something to drown out the noise from outside. I can hear everything and that’s really fuckin’ up my sleep,” I admitted.

“What exactly are you hearing? Everything in Pleasant Springs is closed by ten, then everyone’s at home.”

“It’s little shit. Anytime a car passes, or the leaves blow too hard, I hear it clear as day. My mom said it’s only like that because I’m in a new environment.”

“I was thinking the same thing. I’ve been to Gwendal a few times and the noise is constant. Living here, it’s so quiet that it can be unsettling at times.”

Before I could respond, a waiter approached the table with a pad and pen in hand.

“Good morning and welcome to Coffee King. What can I get fresh for you all?”

After we gave our orders, the server walked off and I gave my attention back to Saturn. Today, her copper color curls were pulled up in a bun on top of her head. She had her baby hairs laid nicely in big swoops that reminded me of my sister. Saturn’s freckled face was glowing and her lips looked good enough to kiss. The pink graphic T-shirt she wore went perfectly with her black biker shorts and pink Nikes. The look was simple but spoke volumes. If this was what she looked like without trying, I could only imagine how she’d look dressed up.

“Tell me about yourself. How old are you? When is your birthday?” I quizzed.

“I’m twenty-seven. My birthday is January nineteenth. What about you?”

“I just turned thirty-three on June first. What do you like to do around here? I’m not familiar with the town, but I wouldn’t mind a tour.”

As the conversation continued, I could tell Saturn was becoming more comfortable with me. Her energy was calming and getting to know her felt natural. Before I knew it, it was time for her to get back to the shop for this last-minute interview. After she agreed to let me install the cameras and alarms, it was settled that we’d have dinner together. From our conversation I’d learned Cajun pasta and salmon was one of her favorite meals, so that was what I planned to cook. The pace of our developing relationship was starting off well and I hoped it could stay like this.

FIVE

Saturn

Walking into the shop only a few minutes before the interview time, I ran into my office and hurriedly put my belongings away. After grabbing a clean apron, I tied it around my back and headed to the front. I was in the middle of opening the register when the sound of light knocks broke my concentration. A smiling Sapphire stared back at me when I looked up. I laid the ten-dollar bills in their rightful place before closing the drawer.

“Good morning, Miss Baker. Thank you again for doing the interview on such short notice,” Sapphire said as she stepped inside with a manila folder in hand.

I was happy that she put in real effort, showing me she wanted the job. I assumed the folder held her resume, which wasn’t something I required but appreciated. When I bumped into Sapphire yesterday, her jet-black hair was in a ponytail, exposing her entire face. Today, her hair was straightened and hanging down her back. The black blazer and matching slacks she wore made her look business savvy. I could tell Sapphire wasn’t from here just by looking at her.

“No problem. Thank you for being here on such short notice. Where are you from, if you don’t mind me asking? I was born and raised in Pleasant Springs, but your face doesn’t look familiar.”

This was the one quality about me that I couldn’t help. Of course, I didn’t know every person who lived in the city, but there were several families I was familiar with. When I couldn’t place a face with a family, my interest would pique.

“I’m from Orlando, Florida. I just moved here about six months ago,” she explained.

“Oh wow. Orlando is clear across the country. What made you move here of all places?” I questioned, hoping I wasn’t coming off as nosy.

“I lived in Florida my whole life. I wanted to experience something new and Pleasant Springs fit the description.”

“You mentioned Becka from the daycare was who recommended me. Is that where you currently work or you have a child in her care?”

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