An establishment where patrons came to hear the live music, drink the specialty Prohibition-era cocktails, and converse in low voices. Not the place to carouse and party. Exactly what Thea was looking for. It was also a venue Ben never took her, and therefore a safe place where her heart didn’t pang with memories.A nice alternative to the chain bars, The Dame & Dapper was darker than dark with its red paisley wallpaper, piquant, circular tables dotting around the space, one long bar, and a small stage for live performances of piano players, lounge singers, and the occasional burlesque show. It was currently sprinkled with a decent number of patrons for a Friday night, but not packed.Thea found an open stool at the bar, and selected one of her favorite drinks from the menu. The mixologist in the suspenders and flat cap smiled and created her request.She drew in a deep breath, then sighed. The nights were the hardest without Ben. Especially this time of year. She’d spent Thanksgiving with her friend Simon and a few others, grateful for the company, but still felt so very alone.Even though it’d been over two years since Ben passed away, the holidays didn’t get any less agonizing.
