Skating in the Dark

I wake up the following morning to Jerry and Erin’s loud conversation in the kitchen. I grab a button up plaid red, white and black shirt, black Jean short shorts, and my red and black plaid converse.
“Morning guys. I'm gonna take Domi for a nice walk. See you when we get back.” I say before making my way to the laundry room to grab a couple of bags and treats which I put in my pocket. I make sure I have my phone and a key, before grabbing his leash and saying “Domi, time for a walk.” He comes running in and is pushing out the door as soon as the leash is attached.

Because it is early morning not too many people are out. And due to the fact that I just woke up, I am not having a hard time seeing. The sun isn't up in the sky so I don't have any problems there. Domi leads the way and I follow. We end up walking to a nice waterside view before we stop. I didn't realize how far we had walked until we had stopped because I was so focused on the scenery and making sure I was paying attention. He finds a nice bench and leads us over to it. I sit on the bench as he lays by my feet. We sit and watch the sun start to rise. I hear people pass us but am more focused on the beautiful sunrise until someone running catches Domino’s attention. He jumps up and runs off behind the bench dragging me along. He barks his happy barks at a runner. The runner slows down and says “Hey big fella.” and I instantly recognize the voice.
“Guess he remembers me,” he laughs.
“He never forgets people,” I say as I get a chance to actually look at the man. Hockey did him well. His broad shoulders make him appear taller than he is. He is on the short side for an athlete but is still a few inches taller than me. He smiles at me and I return it. “You didn't tell me you played for the Flyers.” I say.
“It's not a huge deal. Compared to what you've done. Not nearly as impressive.” He says modestly.
“But, you definitely wouldn't be as fit or toned if you were me. So it's pretty impressive to me.”
My words catch him off guard and he looks at me puzzled.
“I have good days and bad. Today is a better day than yesterday. And it's not as hard in the morning,” I explain and then motion to my eyes, “But I had to find out from my friend that you played for the flyers, so that was quite interesting. She nearly had a heart attack.” I laugh.
“ Well if you ever want to go to a game let me know. I'll get you guys tickets.”
“You don't have to.”
“No, seriously we get them free and the best ones, it's not a problem, and I would like to.”
“Thanks.” I say with a smile.
“It's beautiful isn't it.”
“What?” I ask.
“The sunrise “ he says as he points.
I turn around and try to see but am blinded by the sun. I get dizzy from the loss of my sight suddenly and feel myself sway a little. I hear Domi bark and feel Danny’s hands try to hold me steady. He turns me back around to face him and then puts something on me.
“Here, take these. They are wrap-around sunglasses. Should keep the sun out of your face.”
“Thanks,” I say with a smile as I take my one hand and adjust them on my nose and ears. “Oh, I guess we should let you finish your run.” I say realizing that he was running before Domi stopped him.
“Do you drink coffee?” he asks ignoring my statement.
“Yeah I do.”
“I was running to this coffee shop, not far from here. Would you like to join me?”
“Uh,” I pause and look down at Domi, who looks at me with a face that says say yes, then look at Danny who is petting Domi and looks happy, “Yeah that sounds good.”
He starts walking and I start to have a hard time seeing Domi steps back so that I can grab his collar and Danny notices and stops, putting his arm out for me to hold “Here. Let me help.”
“Thanks,” I say taking his arm, and I let go of Domino’s collar. We start to walk and Domino goes out in front of us, stopping and looking at us every couple minutes. When we get to the coffee shop Danny stops at a table. Pulls out a chair and then asks me what I would like to drink I tell him my order and he runs in. I sit down and Domi rests his head on my lap. I pet him as we wait. He slowly starts to drift off.
I look around me at all the happy couples and then look down at Domino. I realize that I'm better off without Zac than I'd be with him. He would have dragged me to Boston, away from all my family and friends. I would have had to find a new trainer, a new rink, and had to change my whole schedule. That is if none of this had happened. I let a smile creep onto my lips and I hear Danny come out. “How much do I owe you?”I ask as he hands me my latte.
“Nothing.”
“Danny, I can pay for my own coffee.”
“I know. But I would like to pay for it.”
“Can I at least pay you back?” I ask.
“In cash, no.”
“A favor? Or if you need anything ever.”
“Okay.” He says and I can hear the smile. We sit and enjoy the comfort of each other's company in the silence.
Once we are done the coffee we throw out the cups.
“Not to be rude. But what are you doing all the way up here? It's a good 25 to 30 minute drive.”
“Oh. I let Domi lead me. Bad idea I guess. Hopefully he knows how to get home.” I laugh.
“Come on.” He says as he offers me his arm. I look at him confused. “What kind of man would I be if I let you walk home and even worse, didn't make sure you got home safe. I'm going to drive you home.”
“Danny I can't ask you to do that.”
“You aren't asking. I'm offering.”

Notes

Haven't had a Laptop in a while. Sorry guys. Hopefully this chapter is to your liking.