Lawless Hero

“The Chinese, I think.”

“The Chinese? I didn’t know they had troops here.”

“They don’t,” I said. “Here you go.” I handed her a glass of wine.

“Thanks,” she said and then took a drink. “I wonder what they’re doing over there.”

“Probably mining.”

“Mining? What, like gold?”

“You sure do ask a lot of questions.”

“It’s my job. I’m sorry. I get curious. Maybe I’ll try my luck and ask Melvin about it later.”

“No, don’t,” I said.

She tilted her head. “Why not?”

“They’re just miners,” I said. “It’s no big deal.”

“But I wonder what they’re mining.”

“Rare earth minerals.”

“What are those?”

“The shit they use to make cell phones and electronics.”

“Oh, like platinum and what-not?”

“Yeah, something like that.”

We both stared out at the majestic landscape.

“It’s so beautiful. I’m at a loss for words,” she said.

“That’s certainly something for you,” I teased.

“Hey.” She leaned over and lightly punched me on the arm.

I laughed and took another drink, wishing we had more wine. “Refill?” I asked, picking up the bottle.

“I shouldn’t…” she said hesitantly.

“Come on. One more glass won’t hurt.”

“I’m not a big drinker. This one already has me a bit dizzy.”

“Well, more for me then,” I said.

“Okay, okay,” she relented, holding out her half-empty glass. “One more. A small one.”

I filled the glass to the brim and she pulled it away, giggling.

“So, how’s this for romantic?” I asked.

She stared straight ahead, nodding ever so slightly. “Yeah. It’s nice.”