A Gift Left

I had stood outside on the street for the longest time. The shop looked quiet and I had not seen Reck since he left the arena that night with a bottle of the wine from the crate. I was wary to do business with Thalonius until I spoke to Reck more on the subject, his warnings about the merchant taking root. Once Reck left I would watch Thalonius more closely, watching who approached him differently than the more common girl buying a drink for a free man or woman that was being served. I saw nothing suspicious that night but there have been times I have seen the man carrying on business other than the wines he sells. Still, I think it is important for the winery to be represented at the Arena.

Finally I walked to the door and tapped lightly. The sleen, they startled me and by hearing their racket I knew he was not there so left a gift of reserve wine hanging on the door. I imagined he drank the wine like our first meeting, from the bottle like an ale, guzzling without stopping until much of it is gone. I like the way he drinks wine, I like how different he is. I like that it will be his way..

I tell myself I go to the shop about our business at hand.. it is more...