Verses and Versus

Different Kinds of Reverb

The date was a set up. Aubrey had turned it down the first time, but Elizabeth leaned on her, she cracked and relented.

The only obvious commonalities between her and Bryan were age and a love for the art of Joe Coleman.

There was a minor overlap in music, so he suggested they hit a West River festival, a few touring bands, mostly locals.

Aubrey was more than certain that Elizabeth had told Bryan she was an introvert, but he insisted on introducing her to everyone he knew, which was an overwhelming amount of people, and a few people they met in the concession line that Bryan just struck up a conversation with.

Between bands they walked down to the edge of the park, watched some kids skateboard.

Even one of the skater kids waved at Bryan.

Aubrey giggled, but it wasn’t all mirth. There was some discomfort.

“You’re the most gregarious person I’ve ever met.”

Bryan’s head turned quickly.

“You say that like it’s a bad thing.”

Aubrey steeled herself.

“It…it’s fine for you, it obviously works for you. It’s just…a little much for me.”

“I’m sorry. I’m just…like that. I wasn’t always.”

“Seems like you were born that way.”

Bryan laughed. “No, I…you know…nevermind.”

Aubrey thought his blush might be the cutest thing about him.

“No, what?” Aubrey said. “Tell me how one teaches themselves to be gregarious, to be a people person. Maybe it will help my business.”