So Many Times

Sharon poured two cups of coffee, and sat down at the table with her husband. “What are you watching, sweetie?” she asked. Joe looked up from his laptop. “Following the news about those meteor showers. Seems nobody’s been able to find any evidence of where they might have landed. Some folks think it might be alien spaceships. They’re out there, you know.” Sharon nodded. “Maybe they didn’t land. If I saw what was happening on this planet, I’d turn around and hightail it out of here.” “Thanks.” He took a sip of coffee. “You were in the bathroom a long time.” “Touching up my roots.” “You sure do that a lot.” “My hair grows fast.” She shrugged. He closed his laptop. “You want to go with me?” “To search the mountains for flying saucers? To explore a haunted hotel?” Joe coughed. “Actually, my team is sending me to a paranormal conference the next town over while they get rid of some pesky ghosts for old Mr. Barnes.” “I thought you already got rid of all his ghosts.” Joe laughed. “Old Mr. Barnes moved.” Sharon shook her head. “Nothing like a satisfied customer.” “So, do you want to come with me?” “Joe, are you asking me out on a date?” He smiled. “After 45 years of marriage, we deserve to spend some quality time together, don’t you think?” “I suppose that will be together with your bag of gear.” He raised his hands. “Guilty. But who knows when I might need my EMF meter or EVP recorder or….” “Or your camera to record evidence of aliens. Yes, yes, I know.” “Are you certain you’re not psychic?” “No, you’ve just been my main squeeze for decades. I’m getting to know how you think.” Joe put his coffee cup in the sink, then picked up his gear bag. “Wish I could say the same about you. You’re still a mystery.” “I’m a woman, silly. I’m supposed to be a mystery.” Sharon grabbed the car keys. “Let’s go.” “Hey, I’m driving.” “Oh no, this is my treat today.” She wrapped her arms around Joe and hugged him tightly. “Main squeeze, remember?” “Are you crying?” He kissed her on the forehead “Maybe a little. Sorry.” She wiped her nose with her finger. “Let’s get into the car. You don’t want to be late, do you?”