Character Study - The Lady in Black

She walked into the door of the small, noisy bar that Friday night into the warm refuge of The Corner Saloon, leaving the torrential rain and wind behind her. Like a siren, she drew all eyes towards her. She was radiant with her long, blonde, shiny hair like a halo, her expensive-looking black dress with her bare, cream-colored shoulders that shined like the full moon. She removed her smoky gray overcoat and the memory of the discomfort outside in one fluid movement. These simple actions demanded admiration and attention and there was no shortage of it from the roomful of patrons, male and female alike. She wore this attention like a crown, aware yet gracious in her manner.

As she passed the small, crowded tables on her way to the bar, she stopped at several of them, well known by the regulars here. She engaged in various chit-chat, her ready smile and red lips gladdening the soul of any privileged to be witness. Her laughter at some unheard joke somehow cut through the noisy offerings of the rock band performing that night at the far end of the room. She offered a suggestive glance toward the musicians before finally reaching the bartender to place her order, his friendly and swift manner revealing his knowledge of her favorite drink. Maker's Mark with a Coors light chaser. Down to earth refinement.

It did not take long for someone to ask her to dance. He was an older gentleman, straight, strong, and confident, a real professional looking type. Her quick acceptance and whispered response into his ear revealed their familiarity. As they approached the dance floor the sea of dancers parted, a spot in the middle of the fray magically appearing for them. As she twirled to the beat and moved with ability and grace well beyond average despite the stiletto heels she wore, she playfully shared glances with the band members, the eye contact just a little too long, too filled with the wonders of possibility, to be innocent. Yet there was no sleaziness to it, this lady was all class.

She projected high-powered elegance, so beautiful; her image would haunt the dreams of those in attendance for many nights thereafter. However, in a way that was almost ethereal,unattainable, you understood that this lady was beyond being a partner. She was to be worshiped and adored. You would never be happy unless your life was dedicated to making her happy, to put her before all things. It was as plain as the awe in the eyes of those she engaged that she would not have it any other way.

Suddenly the lights flickered as the storm outside kicked up a protest, offended perhaps at being left out of the festivities. Almost on cue, a loud clap of thunder followed, promising a challenging drive home once the confines of this warm retreat were but a reflection in the rear view mirror. There was no fear or dread in the deep eyes of the lady in black however, for she was alive, alive like the storm itself, alive and in full control. In her own way she was it’s equal, her power making even more of a mark on those around her as the fury of nature outside struggled to keep pace with her magic.