" I propose a toast to our continued health and safety. "
Their glasses clinked in the limelight of the chandelier, as bubbles floated upwards to the surface of the liquid irregularly. He'd specifically chosen the brand for this occasion. A special vintage. The taste was supposed to be fruity with hints of chocolate, a warm body and all the stuff that was overtly labelled on the cardboard box.
To him, it just tasted like bitter piss that had been filtered through a musty, old woolen sock for several weeks. Still, he persevered throughout it all, keeping a straight face while sipping the refined poison. Higher palette, his ass.
Luckily, his date of the day reacted quite positively. All for the date, of course.
" Gosh, this is just...amazing, Richard- "
Perhaps, he interrupted a bit too early. Don't let that enthusiasm get to your voice, Richard. Now, give that award-winning smile smile.... At least, that was what the guide-book told him to do. Teeth straight, not too much lip......
" You like it? It's a Australian brand. Winter vintage. Like I said, Australians make the best in the business."
He should have known better than to let loose so easily. Oh, sweet naviety. His date interrupted him, grunting and then, looking at him as if he was serious.
" Then, Australians make wine as well as Mcdonalds makes a burger that doesn't contain 99% fat in it."
Ouch. That stinged. Before he could reply, another question that he saw coming a mile away. Again.
"How much did it cost?"
He didn't even bother answering. The look on his face said it all. His date signed before standing up from the table.
" You can't buy love, Richard. I thought you'd learn that old adage by now."
He raised a hand.
" Stop."
But as usual, the wave of accusations, biting like knives into his flesh, continued to pour down upon him.
" Really, Richard? Sparkling wine? The last theme of the week was swiss chocolate. What's next? Cordon Bleu? More exorbiantly priced things to get into a woman's pants?"
" Just. Stop."
" It's not a case of how. It's a case of when, Richard. And you know what I think?"
" What?"
" The chances of you finding love are zero to no-"
The mirror shattered in front of him, glass shards landing atop the ebony desk. He breathed and panted as golden rivulets of wine leaked onto the immaculate floor.
It didn't bubble anymore.
