Women in Starbucks, single, intelligent, pretty.

You imagine that they're kind. That they're generous with their feelings, helping their friends when they're down, praising them when they achieve some small success.

That they're reliable: that you can ask them, say, to mail a letter for you, and be confident it'll happen.

That they're responsible. That they don't lose your paychecks, that they don't rack-up thousands of dollars in long distance calls to Croatia.

That they tell the truth. That they listen when you talk. That they'll treat you with respect and consideration. That they'll love you the way they promise they will.

That their beds are warm and their arms are warm and their lips are soft and open.

That you can come home to them without being afraid.