Dream Within a Dream, by Ben
With a single bark, a German Shepard lunges forward straining against its leash. I’m acutely aware of the texture of the tan and black fur on the back of his neck and of the damp heat of his breath. I fall backwards onto the bed as Rachel pulls the covers up over her head.
I wake up and realize that Rachel and I are in bed in line at a coffee shop. There’s the warmth and chaos of the crowded café, with the scent of coffee and morning freshness in the air. Beside me in bed, Rachel shares a tender embrace with Patrick. They kiss gently. The sweetness of their exchange tells me this is a first kiss.