That evening I try to get some sleep, laying down on my mattress in the basement I rent. As expected sleep is allusive, but unlike other times this time it’s because I can’t get the beautiful Asian girl out of my mind.

Her voice still haunts my thoughts, and I have a hard time distinguishing what’s just in my imagination from what’s reality. What I am sure of though, is that I have to hear her again. I decide to go back there tomorrow after work, and finally I am lulled to sleep.

                                                          ★★★

The next morning I’m awoken by the sounds of The Manhattans, that is drifting down from upstairs. The song is one I’m familiar with, as the woman I rent from has played this album repeatedly. I listen to the lyrics of the song, Kiss and Say Goodbye, as I get out of bed. Another stupid love song.

Why do all these songs use the same idiotic references?

When is an artist going to come up with his own way to describe love, instead of just going along with what everyone else does? It’s too early in the morning to think these questions through.

I ignore Brendon as I get my painting supplies ready, I want to get this mural started before I go to work this evening. I start painting the base coat on the wall to the left of the basement door. Last week I had painted what Brendon recommended, but now I feel like it’s time for something new. The last girl wasn’t as interesting as this one.

She’s something different. Something special.

Something beautiful. I smile, as I imagine showing it to the pianist from last night. After I find her I’ll bring her back here.

I know she’d love it.

After all, she is the inspiration.