A Slice of Life

It was a day, just like any other

I noticed it, not for the first time in my life, not for the last time either.

But today, I felt it stir inside me.

This time, I spy it was untouched, in its most pure and full form.

I glance down, she stares at me from across the counter, offering to do the work for me.

I figure I ought to give it an honest shot.

The aroma, the texture, the consistency, I had to give it a taste.

I take my knife in hand, gently disturbing the crust, two points carve into the middle.

The subcutaneous red spilled onto my knife, the light no longer reflecting the world off of it.

I can’t see her anymore, but I bet she’s happy.

Into my mouth it goes, the warmth fills me with delight.

It tastes different, strangely enough.

I’d like to try some more.

But I stop.

A new day, a new me, or at least what I like to tell myself to start the day.

In the office I see it again, someone had brought another delightful treat to snack upon.

I would sully the sleek surface of my knife once more, to cut into this classic pastry.

She returns once more, offering just like the last time.

I oblige, just like the last time.

The pastry dough casing splits again, easily enough.

My eyes widen.

I prepare a paper plate; my excitement makes my heart race.

The red stains the plate, but it’s ok, it can be easily replaced.

I bring it to my mouth, my eyes widen, my heart races.

My hunger not satiated.

I go for seconds.

She vanished from my sight once more.

But I know this is what she wanted.

Around it, I’m a bit of a glutton. I can’t control myself when it’s in my sight.

Ever the optimist, I keep my knife nearby, hoping for an opportunity to eat.

Perhaps I’ve gotten too used to this feeling, this instant gratification.

I crave it, more and more each day, I even buy it for myself now.

She knows I’m hooked; I can see it in her eyes.

When I pull it out of its container, my heart slams on the accelerator.

Blood rushes to my head, my mouth salivates, my heart flutters.

A deep incision, slicing through with delightful ease.

She smiles.

I smile back.