Unrequited Love Pt 2

Disclaimer: If you are now just tuning in, here's the first part of this story.

"...and there I'll be
While I rot with the rest
Of those whose lives are
Lonely too"

The lounge is now empty of patrons, and light has been turned on to reveal the aftermath. The whole place turns into a totally different world, devoid of atmosphere and ambiance. The remnants of the evening is being handled by a couple of bar backs and bartenders. Everyone's aware of their individual tasks done routinely every evening and so move in monotonous pace as if battery operated.

On stage, a second person puts away several cords and tripods used earlier that evening during the performance. He gingerly places various equipment back in their cases as if they were fragile artifacts. Suddenly the quiet droning is interrupted by the buzzing of his cell phone. A familiar name flashes on caller id that once used to send a rush of giddiness through him. He's apprehensive about answering, as if to do so would be like opening Pandora's box. He does so anyway, against his better judgment. Pleasantries were exchanged, and we see him smile and agree to a plan set after he's done with work. After he hangs up, he takes a deep breath and ponders for a second.

He takes a step back that nudges the stool which was supporting a guitar leaned against it. He manages to catch it by the neck preventing any damage. He then picks it up and tunes it as he sits on the stool. He picks at the strings gently as to not attract attention, which failed miserably as he failed to notice that the guitar was still connected to an amp. He suddenly feels eyes staring at him. He's shy by nature, this second person of ours. So instead of looking up, he acknowledges his audience of layman workers by singing. And they, in turn, drop what they were doing for a second to settle into chairs, light their cigarettes, and listen to his affirmation.



"Do me wrong, do me right
Tell me lies but hold me tight
Save your goodbyes for the morning light
But don't let me be lonely tonight"