This was just one of those bizarre moments where you swear you’ve entered an alternate universe. I was huffing and puffing my way back to Vienna, punishing myself more than riding. It was hot, the sun was setting and I simply could not make it all the way back without stopping. I won’t tell you how far I was riding a year ago, it’s too humiliating. I typically do not stop where there are several men, I want to drink my water and be left in peace but I was beyond my level of endurance. Besides, they were off their bikes and smoking, so how scary could they be? I get off Spartacus and grab my water (I could not stay upright and drink water simultaneously at that time). I looked at the dudes and decided to take an assertive stance and said, “Dudes, cigarettes — seriously?” Without missing a beat Dude #1 offers me his cigarette, I declined. “Another time perhaps.” I replied. Dude #2 says, “Same time next week? We’ll bring the vodka.” I said the only thing I could think of as I was jumping on Spartacus, “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
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