Talk to Strangers

A question at a cafe leads to an unexpected heart-to-heart.

I was simultaneously devouring an omelette and a book at a neighborhood breakfast spot the other day when the man at the next table asked me what I was reading. If you’re enjoying a little solitude, this kind of interaction can elicit panic, especially if you’re female. (Oh no, he’s about to tell me about the book he’s reading, or even worse, the book h…