When the Balls Drop; A New Years Tale Chapter 1

Chapter One- Alone Again

Mason walked up to the bar at Mickey's and placed an order for a draft. As he waited he began to look around at all the people wearing crazy hats and things for the New Years Eve party…he thought…why am I here? Another boring party—another shitty year to follow no doubt…

It was early still, around 9 pm and there weren't too many people there yet to see the ball drop. There would be plenty later though when the local group Smash came out to play at 10…that's when the real crowd would begin he thought…a bunch of drunks pushing their way to the bar every five minutes…dancing and singing "Auld Langsyne" off key at the drop of the ball…and everyone kissing…everyone but me that is…spending another New Years Eve alone was a very depressing thought for Mason.

When his draft finally arrived he made his way to the last seat at the bar…all the way to the corner and started to watch the Dick Clark's Rockin' New Years Eve special that played on the bar TV. He looked at all those people dancing, and having fun…what did they all have to be so damn happy about anyway?

He watched as people drifted in and out, saw a few friends from the firm and chatted for a half hour or so, but they were off to a bigger more private party elsewhere. Alone again he thought, as always.

The band arrived, and its groupies as well…the place began to crowd. Before long every stool in the bar was full along with the tables…it was standing room only from 11 pm on.

Mason saw a group of attractive young women come in. They seemed to be without dates, so he watched in curiosity. They were cute, young though. Too young for me he thought…college girls no doubt…probably freshmen at that…

As he waited for his next round he noticed a woman coming up the hallway from the rest rooms. He was intrigued. She had long curly red hair, and a pale complexion.