Dead America - New York Tales - Car 37 and Homeless by Derek Slaton

Author:Derek Slaton [Slaton, Derek]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2025-03-08T00:00:00+00:00

Homeless

CHAPTER ONE

Day Zero - 11:13 PM

The icy gusts whipped against Clay and Vivian's faces as they emerged from the upscale restaurant near Central Park. Despite the chill, they wore the glow of young love, having been an item for half a year since crossing paths in a fitness class.

"Maybe we should duck back in for a nightcap, warm ourselves up before walking home." Clay suggested.

"I don’t think alcohol works like that," Vivian replied with a chuckle.

"Sure, if you only consider the science of it," Clay countered.

"And what other way is there?" Vivian challenged.

"Well, for instance," Clay began with a grin, "if you pump enough drinks into me, it lowers my inhibitions, which will most definitely lead to you warming up"

Vivian couldn't help but laugh, giving Clay a playful tap on the chest. "You do realize who you're talking to, right? Can you honestly remember a single moment in the last six months when you've held back?"

Clay pondered for a moment. "Hmm... that's a tough one. Perhaps one more drink would jog my memory."

Vivian laughed again, gently tugging Clay towards the park. "You know I'd love to, but I have a busy day at the office tomorrow. And besides, I've already have enough to overcome my inhibitions, and I'd much rather devote my time to that."

Clay flashed a smirk and winked playfully at her before nodding in agreement.

"I like the way you think. Come on, let's take a stroll through the park on our way back," he suggested.

Vivian gladly linked her arm with Clay's as they made their way across the street toward the park.

"My handsome man escorting me through the park. How romantic," Vivian remarked with a smile.

"Just wait until I get you home," Clay teased in response.

Vivian giggled as they reached the edge of the park, where the moon hung high in the sky, casting a soft glow that complemented the streetlights along the main path.

As they walked, they observed the remaining few people still out and about—a couple of runners seizing the night for exercise, a few individuals in business attire with the telltale sign of questioning their life choices etched on their faces, and a pair of homeless individuals finding respite on the benches.

"So, I have something to discuss with you," Vivian began.

"Uh oh," Clay responded with a hint of playful apprehension.

"What's with the 'uh oh'?" Vivian questioned, raising an eyebrow.

"Nothing good typically follows that introduction," Clay explained.

"Wow, I didn't realize I was dating such a pessimist," Vivian joked.

"Hey now, I'm an optimist," Clay countered with a grin.

"Really?" Vivian challenged.

"Yeah, I'm optimistic that you're going to prove me wrong," Clay quipped, his tone light and teasing.

Vivian chuckled nervously, her gaze shifting downward, a hint of self-consciousness evident in her demeanor as she broached her request.

"So the holidays are going to be here before we know it." she began tentatively, “and i was wondering if you wanted to come home with me to meet the parents. "

Clay didn't respond immediately, his steps halting in the middle of the pathway.

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