The Fourth Day of November

by Mark Campbell

  “Would you please follow me sir?”

  Kelly introduced herself as our waitress for the evening and said she would be back momentarily to take our orders.

  “Good evening, Lee. You look absolutely angelic.”

  Blushing at the compliment, Lee stood up and greeted me with a friendly kiss on the cheek. She returned the gesture by complimenting my nice pringle jumper and slacks before I sat down. Our waitress returned with menus and a pad to take our drink orders. Lee and I both ordered Pepsi with no ice, a favorite for us both. Kelly left and gave us time to decide on what we would eat. We quietly sat browsing meal choices.

  Lee was the first to break the silence. “I like the lasagna. How about you, Alistair?”

  Hearing my name fall softly from Lee's lips aroused me. Staring into her eyes aroused me farther.

  “Okay are we ready to order? Kelly returned to our table. What will it be?”

  “I would like the lasagna.” Lee answered.

  “And what will it be for you, sir?” Kelly asked turning in my direction.

  “The chili con carne would be nice.”

  ---

  Lee and I didn’t talk much as we savored our meal. But when she finally broke the silence, she asked how my food was.

  “It’s delightful.”

  “So is mine. Have a taste.” We proceeded to share our dishes with one another.

  During our light conversation, Lee spoke freely about her mother and father, Lucy and Willie Chang. She mentioned that they met and got married at a young age before leaving China in search of better opportunities. They no longer wanted to struggle in their homeland. So, without hesitation, they headed for America with her father’s parents, and made New York their home in 1962.

  Lee told me that her father had not forgotten old Chinese customs, but her mother’s sentiments towards tradition were quite different. So, opposites attracting was the case for Lee’s parents.

  Lee continued to share that her mother’s parents died when she was very young, leaving little Lucy in the care of an aunt who never wanted to leave China. This was the exact opposite of Lucy’s desires. When she met Willie Chang, they had their first child Lacy, and shortly after, Lee was born. The Changs lived the American dream, and bought a small produce store with an investment from Willie’s parents. They purchased a new home on Long Island’s Baldwin Harbor.

  ---

  Kelly returned to clear the table and ask if we wanted to have dessert. Lee and I were too busy chin-wagging to think about having afters. Nevertheless, we ordered dessert. Lee went for the cherry cheesecake, and I couldn’t resist the apple pie. Lee continued our discussion; this time however, it was my turn to narrate my family’s history.

  “Alistair, why did you leave England and choose to come to America?”

  “I needed more in my life. Adventure, happiness and achieving the American dream have always been goals of mine. Growing up, I would watch American movies, and I knew someday that the Big Apple would be my home.”

  “So, what do you want to do besides working at British Airways?”

  “I’m not sure, but I do know I want to further my education. Going back to school and hopefully starting my own business is a dream of mine.” I answered confidently.

  “That’s terrific! I know you can do it.” Lee’s excitement and sincerity warmed my insides.

  “Do you miss your family?” Lee asked, this time more seriously.

  On the day I left England, my mother cried and my dad rolled his eyes at her hysterics. He’s a bit of a clown. But naturally, a mother’s love is like none other.”

  Kelly returned with our desserts, and Lee and I shared our puddings. Both were equally delightful.

  “Where was I, Lee?” I asked between bites.

  “You were telling me about your mother and father.” She beamed.

  “Oh yeah, that’s right. Both mum and dad are retired. Mum used to teach at my secondary school. As for dad, he was a chippy.”

  Lee looked at me puzzled. “What’s a chippy?”

  “I'm sorry, it means carpenter.” I chuckled.

  “I'm going to have to get used to these British terms if we’re going to hang out together.” Lee’s alluring eyes hypnotized me every time I looked into them. We finished our pudding, and chin- wagged a little more. Neither one of us wanted to call it a night, but we both needed to get an early start the following morning. I paid the bill and left a tip.

  To walk the short distance to her car, Lee looped her arm through mine.

  “How would you like to do this again?” I confidently suggested.

  “What do you mean, walk me to my car?” Lee snickered.

  “You’ve got jokes. I mean going on another date.” I smiled.

  “I would love to, Alistair!” But, finals are coming up and I have very little free time. Then again, can you dance?”

  “I’ve danced a little.” I modestly answered.

  “Well then, on Tuesday evening, meet me at this address at 6:30 pm.” Lee promptly jotted down the address: 1441 New Hyde. “Don’t forget your dancing shoes.” She giggled.

  ---

  Driving home, I couldn’t help but think how amazing Lee made me feel inside. She was leaving an indelible impression on my heart. Every word she said, and every move she made stimulated my innermost thoughts. I believed that Lee felt a connection too. Why else would she have been so open to voicing what she wanted in life, and in a partner? My presence was woven with hers instantly.

  Lee was an erudite woman striving for greatness. She was smart, funny, sexy, assertive and humble. I knew that night that she would be the woman that I married. Most would call me crazy, but I was in love.

  June 20, 1987

  On Saturday morning, Peter, Ronnie and I met for breakfast at Ihop on Old Country Road in Long Island. We enjoyed hanging out together, bonding and sharing life’s erratic adventures. This particular weekend, we were to discuss Ronnie's upcoming wedding to his longtime girlfriend Carlene. They had met during high school and were inseparable from that time on. She meant everything to Ronnie, and Carlene had been anxiously waiting for this day. Rick, Ronnie’s younger brother would be the best man. After breakfast, Peter, Ronnie and I were going for tuxedo fittings.

  The three of us exchanged discourse while enjoying egg whites and pancakes. But, Ronnie was distant as if his mind were elsewhere. Peter asked Ronnie if he had the address to the tuxedo shop. Instantly, Ronnie rummaged through his trouser pockets wildly.

  “What are you doing?” Peter asked surprised by his sporadic behavior.

  Ronnie mumbled under his breath at Peter’s questioning. Unsure of what Ronnie had said, Peter repeated his question.

  “I’ve lost the paper with the location where we should be going for the tux fitting. I can't find it! Shit!”

  “Okay, Ronnie. You need to bloody calm down mate! Since we've gotten here Peter and I have noticed how nervous, restless, stressed out—stop me anytime Ronnie.”

  “I'm fine, Alistair.” Ronnie lied.

  “Sure you are. From what the two of us can see, you look great. Please do us a favor and sit down before someone gets the wrong idea and thinks you’re having a seizure.” I joked, trying to lighten the mood.

  Peter choked on his coffee and Ronnie sat down annoyed. He was truly baffled by the missing piece of paper he so desperately searched for. Ronnie then patted the top pocket of his shirt and pulled out a piece of paper torn from a legal pad.

  “Oh thank God here it is!” Ronnie rejoiced.

  “Ronnie, tell Alistair and I what’s troubling you.” Peter suggested. “You’re not acting like a man that’s about to marry the love of his life. Right, Alistair?”

  My thoughts had momentarily drifted as I thought about my dinner date with Lee. Peter nudged me back to reality.

  “Not you too.” Peter sighed.

  “What do you mean by that?” I asked.

  “First Ronnie is acting mindless and now you’re daydreaming. I was s
aying our friend is not behaving like a man who is about to get married soon.”

  “I’m alright Mr. Parris.” Ronnie dubiously opened up. “Being with Carlene means everything to me but-”

  “But, what?” Peter interpolated while Ronnie paused.

  “I don’t know if getting married is a good idea. I don’t know the first thing about being a husband or a family man.”

  “Listen to me, this is coming straight from my heart. No two people are the same. Marriage is never easy, and anyone who thinks it is, is fooling his or herself. It takes a lifetime of faithfulness, understanding, loving and caring for each other. But if there’s any doubt from either person, there should be no vows exchanged, no I dos. We’ve been friends and have worked together for many years. You are a good person, and everyone sees how you and Carlene’s eyes light up when you two are in the company of one another. Don’t try to modify who you are without knowing what needs to be changed just keep being Ronnie Parris. I have faith in you, and so does Alistair.”

  Peter’s beneficial acumen helped put Ronnie’s mind at ease. The subject of our conversation shifted after that and the focus was placed on me. My friends now wanted to know the details of my date with Lee.

  Zealous Ronnie grinned as he dug for answers. “Alistair, how was your prior engagement with a Miss Lee Chan?”

  “If you and Mr. Beverly must know, my rendezvous with Lee went very well. She and I had a fantastic time. She’s smart, sexy, driven and open minded. There’s undeniably a connection there.”

  Eager to hear more, Peter and Ronnie drew there chairs closer. “So are you going to see her again?” They asked in unison.

  “You’re really bloody nosy aren’t you?” I opposed with slight shrewdness before answering their question. “Yes, we decided to go dancing this coming Tuesday.”

  “What kind of dancing?” Peter grinned.

  “Lee and I have a preference for swing over ballroom.” I answered.

  Peter looked at me in a peculiar manner. “Hold on one minute. The two of you like to swing instead of ballroom dance?”

  “I can see where this is going.” I rolled my eyes.

  “That’s a very unusual date. You’ve gone from talking about dance to becoming swingers.” Peter nudged Ronnie.

  “Peter you and Ronnie are a pair of plunkers. I'm referring to swing dancing not the other kind of swinging. That goes to show where your mind is.” I joked sarcastically.

  Amused at my use of the word plunker, both men asked what it meant.

  “Plunker is another word for shithead.”

  Peter mimicked my accent while repeating the word plunker. Neither Peter nor Ronnie could pull off a British accent. We left Ihop laughing and joking on our way to our tuxedo fittings.

  June 22, 1987

  Monday afternoon, Lee and I sat chin wagging about our upcoming date among other things. She wanted to know how I had spent my weekend. “Alistair, what did you and your friends get up to over the weekend?”

  “We got fitted for tuxedos. Ronnie is getting married on July 10th. After we went our separate ways, I drove to Manhattan’s Myers and Keswick to get a taste of homemade British cooking. I brought Cornish pasties, rich tea biscuits and morning coffee biscuits.” I answered.

  “What are Cornish pasties?” Lee curiously asked.

  I explained that Cornish pasties were made from seasoned potatoes and vegetables wrapped in short crust pastry.

  “That sounds really nice.” Lee hinted.

  “I would like to take you there someday for dinner when you’re not too busy studying.”

  “I would like that very much.” Lee smiled.

  “What did you do this weekend?”

  “Nothing much, I just studied. And when that became too much, I helped out my parents at the store.”

  “How is the studying coming along?” I inquired.

  “Studying to become a lawyer gets more complex every year.” Lee let out an exasperated sigh.

  “What school do you attend? Is it local?”

  “No it’s not. I attended New York School of Law in Manhattan. That’s one of the many reasons why I only work part-time. I have a full load, but with the growing cost of books, I need a job to supplement my expenses.”

  “Well, there’s no doubt in my mind that you will graduate with flying colors. The self confidence, desire and passion that’s inside of you shines brightly and it will yield unquestionable results.” I reassured Lee.

  “That’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.” Lee blushed impulsively, gently touching my hand. She glanced at her watch realizing that our lunchtime would soon be over. Before leaving, Lee kissed me on the cheek and whispered in my ear. “Don’t forget about tonight at 6:30. Don’t be late.”

  ---

  At twenty past six, I was waiting in front of 1441 New Hyde Park, hoping Lee would arrive soon. As a young boy growing up in England, mum had taught my brother, Bradley, and I the importance of being on time. She said that being on time when meeting someone showed respect and good manners.

  Crowds of people started entering the building. Many just looked and stared. Others were more polite and said hello. Moments later, a car came screeching to a stop in the NO PARKING zone directly in front of me. I almost messed on myself. In the driver’s seat was a young and attractive Asian woman. At first glance, I thought it was Lee until she exited the passenger side apologizing for her sister’s erratic driving. She asked if I was okay.

  “I may have to check my shorts.”

  Both sisters laughed. Lee introduced me to her sister Lacy who was now out of the car shaking my hand. “Lee you were right. He is handsome and he has a very sexy accent.” Lacy winked at Lee.

  I couldn’t help but notice Lacy’s attire of blue scrubs. Lee told me her sister was a doctor and not an escaped mental patient, although she drove like one. Lacy got back into her car, waved and made an unauthorized U-turn cutting off a driver in a SUV who shouted out of his window.

  “You none driving bastard!” the driver yelled in Lacy’s direction.

  Lee and I were at a lost for words as Lacy sped off insanely. Before heading inside, Lee warned that Philippe Beauvoir, owner of Beauvoir Dance Studio, would seem a little eccentric at first and somewhat of a stickler. However, she said that I should not take anything he said personally.

  ---

  Born in France and raised in Canada, Philippe moved to New York after winning several world dance titles. He was about five feet seven inches, 150 pounds with dark brown hair, brown eyes and a deep tan. Philippe appeared from behind a door marked OFFICE. Walking speedily from one end of the dance floor to the other, he stopped suddenly in front of Lee and me.

  “Good evening, Miss Chang. Who is this fine looking gentleman?”

  “Philippe, this is Alistair Scott. Alistair, meet Philippe Beauvoir.” Lee introduced us.

  “Nice to meet you, Mr. Scott.” We shook hands. “Can you dance?”

  “A little.” I answered.

  Philippe studied me closely crossing his arms and spoke as he walked away. “There’s something about you Mr. Scott, I can’t quite put my finger on it.”

  “Lee, what did Philippe mean by that?” I asked nervously.

  “I don’t know. That’s the first time he’s ever said anything like that. He must like you.” Lee grinned.

  “What do you mean must like me?” I quizzed.

  “I guess I’m not the only one attracted to your good looks and charm, Alistair.” Lee giggled.

  “Enough chitchat. Let’s dance! Everyone on the floor, please. This is a dance studio, not a cafeteria.” Philippe yelled dramatically.

  In a systemized manner, the other participants flocked together quickly.

  “Okay people, let’s practice the quickstep. Choose a partner. Come along Mr. Vic, Miss Green partner together. Miss Green, are you ready? Mr. Vic, are you ready?”

  The couple bowed.

  “Thank you for wasting five minutes of my life. Let�
��s quickstep folks, now!”

  ---

  Philippe kept a close eye on Lee and I as we went through the motions of the routine.

  “You never told me that you could quickstep like this.” Lee gushed.

  “Philippe keeps looking over here.” I remarked nervously.

  “Don’t worry about him. I was only joking when I said he likes you in that way.” Lee flipped her hand in a feminine limp wrist pose.

  “So, you were only joking?” I smiled.

  “Yes I was.” Lee giggled. “Now, stop talking. He’s looking.”