January 12th

We met at a cafe.

“You weren’t planning on us.” I asked pointing to a sign that read open mic night.

“No,” John laughed.

“Good,” I said sighing in relief.

“Not a singer?” He asked as we sat down.

“Not a public performer.”

“Yeah, I could never sing the songs I write in front of everyone. They’re too personal.”

“You write songs?”

“There’s more to me than most people think, like the whole reading thing.”

“I didn’t mea-”

“I understand where you’re coming from. I wanted to give you this,” He laughed pulling out a book.

“Thanks.”

“It’s about this perfect society, with no crime or sadness. Sounds perfect huh? It comes at a price. No memories. Jonas, the new receiver is trained by the giver who gives him memories of the past. When there was color and emotions but also war and disease.” he explained.

“Sounds good,” I replied.

“Yeah-,” he said cringing as someone started making the sounds of a dying cat.

“Let’s get out of here.” He smiled slyly as he took my hand and led me out the door.