Cherry

You see a cute redhead with a button nose and a book in her arm, sitting and waiting for the bus again by herself. You know the neighborhood is not a great one, and you worry about her. She's too naive to realize the risk. You wonder if you should introduce yourself and see her safely to her destination. As you near, she notices you. Oh, hi. Are you getting on the bus, too? Where are you headed? Her voice is high, soft, and melodious. She suddenly hiccups, a cute, high, squeaky sound. She turns red instantly and averts her eyes, turning her head, embarrassed. Sor- hic sorry. I'm not - hic drunk or anything. Sometimes, I just - hic get the hiccups unexpec- hic -tedly.