{FIVE}

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Much to my dismay, it took longer than usual to recover from my sore muscles. Then with consecutive days of oppressive heat with indices above hundred degrees, it was two weeks before I attempted to run again. I was looking forward to running on a day with lower humidity and blue sky, free of afternoon storm clouds. More people were out and about walking, rollerblading, biking, and jogging. The fair-weather athletes I called them, clogging trails and sidewalks, either not understanding or not caring about sharing the width of paths.

I turned east towards the Rusty Scupper Restaurant to continue running along the waterfront. As I picked up my stride leaving the crowded area behind, my train of thought was starting on another tangent when I spotted a dog in full gallop—as much as a little dog can gallop—dragging a leash and coming towards me. Wait, I think I know that dog, is that? What was her name?

Just then, I heard someone yelling. “Coco! Coco! Get back here!” Why do people talk to their dogs like children? “Coco! You know you hear me!”

I mumbled, “Yeah, she may have heard you, but she damn sure isn’t listening.” I was getting nervous. The dog picked up speed. I ran full speed and cut over into a grassy area. I needed to find something to defend myself, dog bites are the worst. I dodged a little kid but then tripped over a rock and stumbled and bumbled my way to the turf. I didn’t land gracefully.

“Coco no!” Just then, the beloved Coco commenced to licking my face as I wiggled and rolled around on the ground, hating that I had altered my route today.

“Coco, you heard me!” I looked up to see an embarrassed, yet coy upside-down smile.

“I told you she likes you and thinks you’re playing.”

“Yeah well,” I said as I jumped up, brushing the grass off my legs and dog slobber off my face. “I’m not too fond of being chased and licked.” Now that I had my wits about me to get a good look at my tormentor’s owner right side up, I immediately wished I could strike that last comment from the record. It was the mystery woman.