Blank stares between the two. He had seen her before. Some time ago. Years. The man could not stop looking at her. Time had done nothing. So What played on the jukebox.

She sat on the barstool with her legs crossed, wearing a red dress. The same dress he’d seen her in before. The one with the V-neck. She looked up at the silent TV. The Mets were on.

He wanted to walk over. Say something. But he didn’t have the courage; not enough whiskey yet. She looked back at him and pointed. Started to walk over past the pushers, pimps, fat men, gamblers, dope-heads, queens, and concubines. I know you, she said. Yes. I remember, she took a drink.

I know, he told her. I have a familiar face.

No. I know you. We’ve spent time together. You don’t remember?

He looked at her up and down. She grabbed his cheeks and kissed him. Left a red stain on his lips.

Oh yeah, he said. It’s coming back to me. The tall woman kissed him again. Joan? Is that you? she nodded and smiled. Forgive me, he said. It’s been a long time.

It has.

You still look great.

Thanks.

Haven’t changed a bit.

You didn’t recognize me, she said. Couldn’t make me out?

I thought it was you. You never know. How are the kids?

One’s in college. The other cuts hair. They’re doing good. They ask about you. That is, they used to. Things fade away. We let go.

Yes. Could I buy you a drink?

She shook her head. No thanks. Just wanted to say hello.

Hello.