One cold November morning, the 7:55am downtown bus is late. Destiny has scheduled a special journey for two strangers this day. There's instant attraction. But is their final destination true love? Or is this merely a ride of fancy?
Romance in Four Seasons is a collection of unconventional contemporary romantic tales ranging from lighthearted to bittersweet. Each story is set in a different season, but all are about people looking for love, and the curious hand Destiny plays in the outcome, for better or worse.
Michael Gardner writes stories from the twilight zone of his mind, a middle ground between light and shadow, between science and superstition and his sock drawer. Cross over if you dare.
It’s been a long time since my eyes were peeled for “the one,” Mr. Right, my one true love. “Missing the Bus” brought it all back to me. The uncertainty. The self-consciousness. The romantic fantasies. The calculations that go into the first interactions with someone you’re attracted to.
In this fine short story, we’re treated to a woman’s chance meeting with an attractive man while waiting for the bus on her way to work. Which eventually leads to all kinds of calculations about how to present herself. “I give him a friendly smile, not teeth, but friendly all the same. … It’s just that a smile with teeth is too enthusiastic at this particular moment.” And “What will he think if I’m early? That I’m too eager? Desperate? Nobody likes desperate.”
The author paints a vivid picture of these two people through the eyes of a young woman who longs for love, as well as the obstacles, real and imagined, in her path.
The series are thoughtful collection of short stories that capture quiet moments in everyday life. Each piece offers a gentle reflection on human connection, change, and emotion. The writing is simple and sincere, making it an easy and pleasant read. A nice series to dip into when you're after something light but meaningful.
Set in a bus queue, this short story is a delightful human observation of how minds wander at 7.55 AM. I found the protagonist to be highly entertaining, with her ringtones and underwear dancing. How lovely, a coffee shop over the road from the bus queue! Great ending.