Author's Note: I bet you're wondering why this story is in the RENT section. Well…
1991
Mark woke suddenly, stifling a cry. The familiar darkness of his room replaced the darkness of his dream. He leaned back against his pillows, but shot up, hearing a voice whisper, "Mark," in the darkness. He jerked as the door opened, and sunlight streamed into the room.
Roger shot him a concerned look. "You okay? You don't normally sleep in."
Mark nodded. "Fine. What time is it?"
Roger looked at the clock. "8:30. You're going to be late."
Mark shot out of bed. "Damn!"
Roger smiled. "Don't worry. Victoria already called. I told her you'd be a little late. You're fine. Mimi and I will see you at the Life. Don't forget. Seven."
Mark nodded, throwing on his clothes and grabbing his camera.
A few minutes later, Mark was rushing down the sidewalk, darting around fellow pedestrians. He raced around a corner, slamming into a young woman. They both toppled to the ground. "Oh, jeez!" Mark hopped up, pulling the blonde girl to her feet. "Sorry!"
The girl smiled. "It's okay. I'm Alaura. Alaura deSoirs."
Mark grinned. "Mark. Cohen. I…um…"
Alaura laughed. "I seem to have this effect on most men. Are you busy later?"
Mark shook his head. "No…wait, yes. It's my friend Maureen's birthday. Why don't you join us? We'll be at the Life Café at seven."
Alaura nodded. "Sure. I'll see you then." She vanished, seemingly into thin air, and left Mark blushing in the street.
Mark shook his head to clear himself of the sensation of meeting her and hurried off to work.