When No One is Watching

Each of us has unique qualities that make us interesting or attractive to others.  More often than not, we are automatically drawn to people with a good disposition or a fun personality.  Your distinctive qualities set you apart from other people.  Who you are, however, when no one is watching, is your true character.  Sergei’s true character was always there.  He just never had the opportunity to express it.  And when no one was watching, he planned a new life. 

Below is an excerpt from my draft of A Rose for Sergei.  (Sergei and I had just returned from a party with friends.  We were sitting on the sofa in my apartment in Arlington, VA.)

The soothing effects of the vodka and the late hour finally caught up with Sergei.  It was hard for him to even keep his eyes open.  He leaned over towards me and rested his head on my shoulder.  He was barely awake but he mumbled slightly to ask me if I would call a cab for him.  I reached over and stroked his hair gently off of his forehead, away from his eyes, as I spoke.

“Hey, I’m a little worried about you getting home safely tonight.  You can hardly stay awake.  I’m even concerned for you to take a cab back into Washington DC.”

“No, do not be concerned for me.  I will be okay,” Sergei replied.

But I was concerned for him.  He was so tired.  He looked like he could drop off into a deep sleep any second.  He might not find his way back, even in a cab.  I shivered involuntarily thinking about it.  I hated the scary dark parts of the city.  “Maybe it’s better if you stay here for the night.  You can stay on the sofa and take a cab back in the morning.”

“No, it is okay.  I will be okay.  I am just tired.”  He sat up then and looked at me rather sternly.  “I can take care of myself.  Do not be concerned about me.”

Somehow I felt that my offer to stay on the sofa sparked something in him, even irritated him a little.  He managed a slight smile though as he explained why he needed to leave.

“It is necessary for me to return to the Christian Fellowship House tonight.  I am guest.  If I do not return they will think something happened to me.  I do not want to cause them concern.  They are very kind to have me as guest.”

“You’re right, I understand.  They would be concerned if you didn’t show up.”  I reluctantly called a cab.  I admired Sergei’s conviction to be considerate of his hosts at the Fellowship House.  He didn’t want to cause any alarm if he failed to show up.  It said a lot about his sincerity and his character, and I respected that.  And I loved how honest he was about everything.

I saw Sergei’s true character. 

 

I was watching.