The two women who greet each other at the entrance to Sarabeth’s Kitchen, a popular brunch place in New York City, are bundled up against the cold in parkas, wool hats and gloves. Eva hugs Anna and they take their place in line for a table.

“Did you hear from him?” Eva whispers to Anna.

“Shhh, let’s wait until we’re sitting,” Anna says.

When they finally are seated, steaming coffee in front of them, Eva leans closer to Anna and raises her eyebrows.

“Yes, he e-mailed,” Anna says.

“Wellll,” Eva says, waiting.

“He’s been busy. Writing his book, you know. He says he wants to get together soon.

“What’s soon?” Eva asks.

“Who knows? He didn’t say. It’s pretty frustrating. First he kisses me like a lover, then he’s really busy. The old story. “

“Hmmm,” Eva says, leaning back and sipping her coffee. Yes, the old story. “When did you see him last?” she asks.

“About two weeks ago. Just for lunch in a diner. But he bought me this watch.” Anna holds out her arm. “It’s fake, of course. From a stand. But it works great, and I like the way it looks. It was just a fun thing.”

Eva smiles. “It’s nice,” she says. They start to eat their pancakes. As usual, they’re excellent, as is the coffee. Sarabeth’s is their favorite place for brunch.

“So are you just going to wait and see what happens?” Eva finally asks.

“I guess so. What else can I do? I know he is busy. The book and all. And I think he likes me. Why else would he keep e-mailing? And that kiss.”

“What about the other guy?” Eva asks.

“He’s nice, but I like this one better. Michael. He’s very bright, and he’s interesting.”

“Well, keep the other one around. You never know. And he really seems to like you.”

“I know. I like him too, but not as much… Anyway, how are you and Joe?.”

“We’re good. Joe would like to get married, but you know, been there, done that.”

“You’re happy?”

“Yes. Well, all relationships have their problems, but we’re doing okay. “

“Do you think I should just keep on going like this?” Anna finally asks. “I mean, just e-mailing and waiting to see? Or should I ask him what he has in mind? I just don’t know.”

“It depends,” Eva says. “It’s taking a chance, of course --- asking. He might say he doesn’t want to be tied down. But then you’d know. Which is better, do you think? How do you feel about that?”

“I don’t know. I don’t want to lose him…but then, I don’t really have him either, do I?”

“You really like this guy? Why not just wait a while and see? It hasn’t been that long, has it?”

“No, about two months. But I’ve only seen him three times.”

“How long has he been divorced?”

“About a year and a half.”

“Do you know if he’s dating anyone else?”

“I don’t know. We don’t talk about that kind of thing:”

Both women remain silent for a while. “I’m so glad I’m not out there on that scene,” Eva says finally. “Joe’s not always easy, but we love each other and hey, we’ve always got a New Year’s Eve date.”

They laugh. “How old did you say this guy is?” Eva asks, looking at her watch and started to pick up her coat.

“He’ll be 80 in June,” Anna says. Just three years older than me.

“It never ends,” Eva laughs. And they stand up to leave.

January 2004

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