We met at one of a hundred bars that line up talent to perform as background music to the dating dance of drinks, talk, and gentle touching.

Rita was in line to perform before me that night. I was mesmerized. Her voice, her songwriting, her subtle sexiness enraptured me. I could watch her all night. I was in love.

She exited the stage after meager applause. She deserved more. Lots more, she is great.

I stammered as she walked past me.

'You were... you.. you... you were...'

She stopped, looked at me, and smiled.

'You were saying?'

I took a deep breath and blurted out, 'You were great!'

She said,...