Storytime Episode 2 - The Dagger in the Heart While Dodging a Bullet

I was in a tight spot. My bestie was opening what she called “The Book Club.” I wanted to support her, but she warned me about the musical guest. Basically, her idea for this place was like a library with a cafe/bar kind of vibe. Yes, it would serve all drinks at any time of day. She just wanted a place for anyone to chill at. She also wanted to support local musicians so she would have them perform. Of course, the one she booked was a flake so the backup was my ex. This is what happens when you’re all mutual friends.

When I got there, I only had time to wave to her. She was busy with everyone else. I was glad she saw me - that was good enough. I took a seat in the back just in case I needed to dip. When the lights dimmed and the program started, I thought her speech was wonderful and perfect. Then, it was time for the main act. There he was, walking on the stage with the spotlight on him. Though I was over him, it was weird seeing him again. We definitely haven’t talked since the breakup, and I hope he didn’t notice me.

I will admit, no bias I promise, he’s good. A good singer and guitarist. He’s wonderful. He sang all the songs he sang to me before. The crazy part is I remember these songs not because he sang them to me, but it was because I was part of the process. He wrote them with me or if he wrote them on his own, I would be the first one he would go to. As he continued with his set list and I snapped out of reminiscing land, I realized within 2 strums of his guitar what this song was. Oddly enough, he put me in that land and now he snapped me out of it. I could feel pain. Then, he sang. He sang the song from my favorite artist. The one where every lyric was supposed to be meant for me. I saw the spotlight follow him as he sang the song to the one he was with now.

How inconsiderate. I thought to myself.

Though the pain wasn’t that fresh, I felt the dagger in my heart turning in more a bit. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes. I wanted to leave, and I’m sure my bestie would have understood, but I am a better person. When I opened my eyes, he was back at the center of the stage. He was smiling ear to ear. His eyes glistening with the spotlight. I knew he was happy with the stardom, but I reminded myself...it may hurt, but I dodged a bullet.