The Last Phone Booth in Manhattan

by Beth Merlin

there was nothing more magical than New York City during the holidays.

And remember, no space of regret can make amends for one life’s opportunities misused.

In a daze and at the speed of a roving sloth, I picked my bag and coat up off the ground, hung them both up on a hook by the door, and slumped down in the seat beside him.

do believe that the universe has a way of setting things right that need to be set right. Call it karma or spirituality, whatever you want. I don’t think you’re crazy. I think we’re given signs and clues all the time, but we’re not always in a place to pay enough attention and recognize them.

“I didn’t realize you were from Iowa? You seem like such a New Yorker.” Lyla stopped dead in her tracks and put her hand over her heart. “Really? Thank you. I think that’s the best compliment I’ve ever gotten.

Deep down, I knew we were too scared to move on from one another, more in comfort than in love these past few months.