The Proposition

She stared at me with expectant eyes as her proposition hung precipitously there in the warm evening air.

Well?

She was young and pretty.  Perhaps in her early 20's, maybe even younger. I have to admit that I was instantly tempted, especially given the reality that I have recently been feeling every bit, and then some, of my two score and two years of age.

I paused, carefully considering my next move.  The truth was that I had come far to get to this point.  Plus, I had a 3 year old son to consider.  Had she noticed him? He was right there.  Then again, maybe she had clearly understood that he was with me, and that just made her want to all the more.  He is an adorable kid. I probably benefit from that more than I realize.

I took a quick glance around to see who might be looking. I was in my neighborhood after all. 

In that split second the thought also crossed my mind about how this would reflect on my perception of my own manliness.  Like it or not, there is a certain measure of male pride at stake when considering such a proposal.

Finally, after seeing no familiar faces, I decided I'd just throw caution to the wind.

"Uh...yeah, sure.  I could use some help out with those." I responded as I looked from my son to the cart, which was loaded full of grocery bags.

And I gotta tell you, it made things a lot easier.