The Toothless Wonder

The Eugene Bus Station is a place of daring adventure, unexpected mystery, and hidden wonder. Once you enter the humble station, one never truly knows where they will go, who they will meet, and why they met that one unforgettable traveler. Personally, I look forward to the Eugene Bus Station every time because that place is full of inspiration for CochTalk. There’s always bound to be some sort of action whether it’s crazies discretely pooping on benches or weirdos dancing publicly with their oversized headphones. But please, I definitely encourage others to dance as if no one is watching. Especially at the Eugene Bus Station. It’s expected and everything is welcomed in the lovely city of Eugene, Oregon.

As I made my traditional walk to Bus 93, the Veneta Bus, I was stopped by some estranged woman yelling at me. She asked me the same question 3 times until I finally realized she was talking to me. I always try to remain oblivious and introverted at the bus station to avoid any altercations of any kind. I never even attempt to maintain eye contact with anyone. They could take it as disrespect Papa Cochran says. But despite all my efforts, today, my methods failed.
The rough woman asked me from afar, “Hey! So, when do I get this massage you promised me?!”
I was taken aback. Not only by this woman’s rugged appearance but also by the fact she knew I administered massages every once in a while and I supposedly promised HER one. I walked closer hoping to perhaps recognize this woman but alas, I could not. Maybe she was in my same Shiatsu massage class?
Her face could have been a face from my past but I couldn’t be sure. I almost thought she was Linda, the Queen Bitch who rode my bus, but her missing front tooth threw me off. I walked closer, gulped at an audible level, and simply responded, “Oh, hey you! Um, how’s it goin? How you been?” trying to keep my cool. I didn’t want to show any disrespect now. This lady wasn’t afraid to lose some teeth and I do happen to enjoy brushing mine on a daily basis. All of them.

“I’m good, I’m good,” She smiled baring that toothless wonder of a smile.
“So, has John still been stalkin’ you ?” she asked inquisitively.

Ok, who the hell is John? I had no idea who she was referring to and simply thanked God this “John” character wasn’t stalking me. Did she know something about me I didn’t? Do I have a stalker named John? Is he missing a tooth too?

“Oh, no. He done stopped long time ago. Is he, uh, still stalkin’ you?” I asked trying to convey a tough demeanor.

She just shook her head no and smiled. I actually kind of hoped John was ok.
The toothless wonder’s two friends showed up, who looked equally as tough, so I decided it was my cue to peace out, respectfully.
“Well, it was good seein’ you girl. Take care and I hope you get that massage soon. Bye!”
I ran to my bus, didn’t look back at my new friend, and made sure to brush my teeth as soon as I came home.