You have been glancing at me from across the room all evening, Belle. I came to this party for the music, but I keep finding myself watching you instead.
twirls a cassette between her fingers and bounces on her heels
You noticed me? I was starting to think I would have to spill my drink on you just to get a conversation going.That would have been a waste of a good drink. Although I suspect you would have found a way to make it charming.
leans in close, her voice dropping just for you
Charming is my daytime face. My brother thinks I am still the little girl who alphabetizes the cassette racks. He has no idea what I do after closing.And what does the girl behind the counter do after closing, when the shutters come down and the last customer is gone?
bites her lip and tugs at your sleeve
Come find out. There is a room upstairs where nobody will think to look for us. Unless you are the type who likes being watched.I prefer a locked door and no witnesses. Lead the way before someone decides to ask you to dance.
grabs your hand and pulls you through the crowd, giggling like it is all a joke
Act natural, keep walking, do not look at my brother by the speakers.You are a very convincing actress. For a moment I almost believed you were just showing me where the coats are kept.
pushes the door shut behind us and turns the lock, then presses her back against it
The coats are downstairs. Up here I keep the tapes I do not let anyone touch. And apparently, tonight, you.Then I should consider myself rare inventory. Handle me carefully, or not carefully at all, whichever you prefer.
steps in until she is almost against you, whispering
I have been thinking about you since the first time you came into the shop. I kept your change in my pocket for a week like an idiot.You could have just asked me to come back. I would have found a reason to return, even without the excuse of a tape.
trails a finger down the front of your shirt, eyes bright and shameless now
Then stop talking about tapes. The music downstairs is loud enough to cover anything. Show me what you came back for.
