(288) Vulcan lane
A hub of people revealed themselves within the enclosed alleyway. Wining and dining, table to table. Tim and Siena enjoyed lunch, sitting amongst the crowd of people. The pair exchanged a series of would you rather questions presented on the back of the menu. It was Siena’s turn to read.
SIENA If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you choose?
TIM Mind. I think I would only grow to be more handsome. Let me guess yoursmind as well?
SIENA Mind is all that matters.
(331) Jean Batten Place
The sounding of guitar was received through the transitional street. People moved past the melodies of the desperate busker. Tim started to sing along to the song, Loyal by Dave Dobbin. Siena joined in. Smiling at each other, they knew they shared a love for the Kiwi, Singer and song writing legend. Siena reached into her pocket, sparing some change for the man in need, Tim followed.
Feeling both good about the gesture and equally saddened by the busker’s desperation Siena expressed herself.
SIENA I Feel terrible about this kind of stuff it, makes you feel grateful for everything. Especially the basics which we fail to think of life without, food, water, my bed, my family, my Mum.
TIM I was just thinking that. I couldn’t imagine life without all of that. I need to remember how lucky I am.
SIENA I think we all need to
TIM You close with your Mum?
SIENA Very. You?
Tim began to speak about his mother, the way he was raised and his memories. Siena, touched by Tim’s honesty, followed.
(340) Fort Lane
The seedy red light lined the street jutting from one side to another above. The darkened alleyway set Tim and Siena in disease. They positioned themselves close together, their hands lightly embraced one another’s.
SIENA This place make me feel a bit uneasy.
TIM Me too.
SIENA We both are feeling uneasy.
TIM Although I like the light, seedy but cool.
SIENA Me too.
TIM We both like the light.
SIENA We agree on a lot
TIM Indeed we do.
(351)Tukitai Square
Sitting amongst young professionals on their daily break Tim and Siena basked in the sunlight in silence over listening pairs in conversation. There was one pair where one of them was speaking far more than the other. Siena leaned over to Tim and whispered
SIENA I would never be friends with someone like that.
TIM Like who?
SIENA Someone who only likes to talk about themselves. I feel like there sound be a little more to friendship than that.
TIM Like what?
SIENA I value good conversation. Understanding one another and their needs. You know. You?
TIM Good chat. You can’t have a good friendship without good chat. .
(400) Te Ara Tahuhu Walkway
Siena and Tim mindlessly wondered towards the canopy of warm light, suspended over the walkway ahead. In a dreamy daze of optimism Siena’s mind started to think about some of the things she wished to accomplish.
Siena I really want to do up my apartment. I’ve been thinking about it ever since I arrived in Auckland. I want to live in a beautiful space. Perhaps some ferry lights. Like this.
TIM I’ll help you.
SIENA Deal. In exchange I’ll help you with a dream of yours.
TIM I’ve always wanted to bungy jump.
SIENA Let’s do it.
TIM I think we have the next date planned.
The two of them leisurely walked through the opening towards Britomart. Every step they walked forward with impending sadness reconciling with the idea that they were about to depart.
SIENA Talking about dreams and regrets
Siena went in for the kiss. Smiled and walked into the Station.
TIM Until next time.
Intoxicated with a million emotions Tim was euphoric. His expectations were exceeded. Reality was better.