Fifth Street Shadows

By the time the rain stopped, the city had that washed-clean look—streets glistening, air sharp and heavy with the smell of wet asphalt. I sat at the edge of the bed, staring at the clock like it
was taunting me. Eight forty-five.

Fifteen minutes until the coffee shop. Fifteen minutes until I either walked into something I’d regret... or got answers I couldn’t unhear.

Duane had fallen asleep on the couch, ESPN humming low in the background. His phone was balanced on his chest, rising and falling with his steady breathing. Part of me wanted to wake him, spill everything—the package, the photo, the texts. Let him carry some of this weight. But another part whispered, Not yet. Not until you know for sure.

I slipped on my trench coat, slid my keys into my purse, and paused at the door. One last look at him. Peaceful. Trusting. Loving me without hesitation. My throat tightened. If he knew where I was about to go, would he still look at me the same?

The ride over felt longer than it was. Every red light, every brake check, every pedestrian crossing in slow motion—it all stretched time out like the universe was daring me to turn around. But I didn’t.

The café sat on the corner of Fifth, its neon sign flickering like a bad omen. Inside, the warm glow of hanging lights bounced off the rain-speckled windows. I scanned the room—college kids with laptops, a couple on a date, a man in a hoodie reading a newspaper that looked older than me.

And then I saw him.

Back booth. Hood pulled low. No coffee cup in front of him, no phone, no laptop. Just... waiting.

My pulse jumped. I gripped the strap of my purse tighter and forced my legs to move.

When I slid into the booth, he looked up. And my whole world tilted.
Because it wasn’t a stranger.

It was somebody I knew. Somebody I thought I’d never see again.
“Hello, beautiful,” he said, his voice low, familiar, laced with something dangerous. “Miss me?”

My breath caught. My hands trembled under the table.

And just like that, the storm outside wasn’t half as loud as the storm that was in my head.

Darius had reappeared. I didn’t know if I wanted to punch him in the face or scream leave me the hell alone or sit here and hear him out. I immediately answered “No I did not miss you at all. And you have a lot of explaining to do”

The look on his face was one of pain and confusion as though he was shocked at my response.

“You have 10 minutes to say what you have to say, so that I can get back to my home with my fiancé and get this mess that you brought into my life behind me”

He blinked, slow, like he was sorting through memories that never left him alone. “Ten minutes,” he repeated, setting the time like a metronome.

“Alright. Ten minutes. Then I leave. I promise you that. But before you do anything, before you run—I need you to listen.”

It sounded rehearsed, but there was a tremor in his voice that cut through my anger and landed somewhere softer. For a second I almost laughed at myself for caring. Then I remembered the photo, the red ink, the words: You deserve the truth.

“Talk.” I folded my arms like armor. The people around us blurred into background noise—the hiss of the espresso machine, somebody’s laugh, the clink of a spoon against a ceramic mug.

All of it dulled to a hum while Darius watched me with those eyes that used to be kind but now make me feel furious.

He leaned forward, palms flat on the table, voice low enough that the woman at the next booth with the laptop had to inch her ear away.

“Explain where you been?” I spat. “You left. You disappeared. No call. You just walked out and left me to pick up pieces. Now you show up with secrets and expect me to listen?”

He flinched like my words hit him physically. He swallowed. “I thought disappearing would keep you safe.”

“Safe?” I barked. “You turned my life into a puzzle and then ghosted. That’s your idea of safety?”

A dozen emotions fought inside me—rage and pity. I thought of Duane, of cinnamon rolls and the way he called me his whale and meant it in the best damn way. I thought of promises and futures and how fragile those things felt right now.

“You could have warned me,” I said, quieter. “I had a right to know.”

“I know.” Darius’s voice cracked. “I know I screwed up. 

Ten minutes felt like both enough and nothing. All I could think about was the man who loved me and kept me with cinnamon rolls, or listen to the man who has caused nothing but chaos and unwanted drama in my life.

The timer clicked down in my head: ten minutes, nine, eight.

I inhaled, slow, and let the next question fall from my lips like a loaded coin. “Start talking.

🍂 Crispy Delicata & Pomegranate Salad with Ginger-Tahini Drizzle

Why It Works:

This vibrant fall salad pairs roasted delicata squash—known for its edible skin and sweet, nutty flavor—with fresh pomegranate arils, peppery arugula, and crunchy roasted chickpeas. A light ginger-tahini drizzle ties everything together with creamy brightness, no heaviness needed.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium delicata squash (sliced into half-moons)

• 1 cup arugula or baby kale

• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

• 1/2 cup roasted chickpeas (or toasted pepitas)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

Ginger-Tahini Dressing:

• 2 tbsp tahini

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• Water to thin

How to Make:

1. Roast delicata squash at 400°F with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20–25 minutes until golden.

2. In a bowl, toss arugula, pomegranate seeds, and roasted chickpeas.

3. Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.

4. Add warm squash to the greens and drizzle with dressing.

Joke Of The Day

Why did the retired couple join a gym after turning 50?

To flex their wisdom muscles and empower each other to lift each other up, of course!

Learn how to use AI to simplify everyday decisions by breaking down your choices, clarifying your priorities, and gaining perspective—AI won’t decide for you, but it makes your decision process clearer.

Practice asking AI for help comparing options, weighing pros and cons, and organizing your thoughts.

For example, if you’re deciding between joining a new gym or trying home workouts—especially with a busy work schedule—try prompts that explore cost, motivation, stress relief, or scheduling.

You can add specific constraints such as budget, shift focus to what matters most, or ask for a simple schedule to see your choices more clearly.

AI is your decision mirror: reflecting back what matters, not making the call for you.

Real-life choices—like picking a phone plan, weighing travel destinations, or choosing a logo design—can all be clarified with AI’s structured guidance.

Use AI as a thought partner to reduce stress, get unstuck, and take action confidently.

Interesting Facts

Autumn’s brilliant colors create the ideal backdrop for a memorable fall getaway.

Prepare for fluctuating temperatures by embracing layered clothing, such as a lightweight waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes.

For those chasing peak foliage, use prediction tools and book your stay early in places like Vermont, Oregon, or the Smoky Mountains to enjoy the best color displays.

Autumn brims with festive celebrations, including the enchanting Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, providing unforgettable local experiences.

Take advantage of post-summer off-season deals for budget-friendly trips.

Pack thoughtfully—essentials like a reusable water bottle and a soft scarf will enhance comfort without weighing you down.

Don’t forget your camera or extra phone storage to capture autumn’s soft golden light and vibrant landscapes.

Let yourself savor the scenic drives and unique local culture that make fall journeys truly special.

Quote Of The Day

"Today's quote of the day: 'Age is just a number, but wisdom is timeless. Embrace your journey and let your light shine bright.' Remember, your best days are yet to come. Stay empowered, always."

Sharing is Caring - F.L.Y. After 50