Who was this vision of loveliness, and, why was she alone? Joe wondered, as he wiped the bar in front where she sat, just to get a chance to talk to her.

“What will it be ma’am?” he asked, looking into her hazel eyes.

“Martini… two olives please.” She took a cigarette pack out of her purse.

 He wanted to mention that smoking was a nasty habit, but it was none of his business. She walked over to the jukebox and played an old Hank Williams tune.

“Care to dance?” she asked, extending her arms to Joe.

 He couldn’t resist the invitation. The smell of her perfume was hypnotic.

“What’s your name? She passionately asked, looking into his wanting blue eyes.

“Joe”

 “Well, Joe, it’s a pleasure meeting you.”

 “The pleasure is all mine, ma’am.”

   Joe walked back behind the bar. “What’s your name?” Joe turned to place a fresh glass on the rack.

“It doesn’t matter,” she said, taking a sip of her drink.

When he spun around to face her she was gone, vanished.

He awoke with a start, sweat pouring down his face. He snapped on the light on his nightstand. On the pillow lay a rose petal.