Broken Man

Who is this man in seat seven? Amanda enjoyed his smile, pleasant and well framed against the backdrop of his ruggedly tanned face and close cropped dark hair flecked with gray. But at the same time, Amanda sensed a certain sadness beneath the pleasant exterior, as if this strong, durable looking man had been hurt, damaged, or broken in the past. This man is different, Amanda thought to herself and was surprised at the immediate attraction she felt for a stranger. It wasn't just physical attraction, the kind that many people mistake for love and then proceed to ruin their lives accordingly. No, this was more than that. Maybe it was because of the holiday or perhaps it was due to her loneliness, but Amanda had the feeling that this man was meant to sit at her table tonight, that some unique circumstances had conspired to bring them together. Could it be love at first sight? Could it be destiny? Could he possibly be feeling the same thing?