A Match Not Made in Heaven: A Short Story

Abby: Oh, I just can't wait for tonight! I hope I'll look pretty enough for him. Will he really like my hair this way? Would he prefer a light or dark dress? I wonder what color the restaurant is.

George: Man, I hope I can pull this off tonight! I wonder how I should greet her. Should I say her whole name, or just her first? Maybe I'll include her middle name for style! Of course, it'd be nice to give her a hug or something, but I can't do that in front of her old man.

Abby: Let's see: I have to wear these shoes! They're the very pair I wore when we first met - I'm sure he'll remember! Oh, I hope Daddy likes him! Daddy always sounds rough around the edges, but he's really not mean at all!

George: I wonder what I'm supposed to say to him. I absolutely have to remember to shake his hand. But how? I can't appear weak, but I don't want to be an overconfident tough guy, either. What if he's a giant? More importantly, how do I respond if he lectures or threatens me?!

Abby: I mean, Daddy did punch the last guy who asked me out, but that boy was a jerk anyway. George is so sweet - and so cute! I just know Daddy will approve! I bet he's taking me to the best restaurant in town! I hope it has softly candle-lit, quiet, isolated booths.

George: What will she think if we get a flat tire on the way? I'm glad I got my new spare last week. What's the name of the restaurant again? Oh, yeah: 'Frankie's Friendly Festival of Food 'N Fun'! It's usually kind of loud and crowded; I hope she won't mind.

Abby: I'm sure a place that nice costs a lot of money. But that'd just prove how he feels about me! I hope it doesn't cost him too much, though, so we can go back next week! He must be so sacrificial with his money! I can't wait to get to know him better!

George: My friend who works there promised to get me 10% off their $5 special - what a deal! At that price, I can take her back next month! But I suppose she'll want something more classy. And maybe she won't even like the food. Fabulous - she'll probably complain the whole time - way to go, genius!

Abby: Tonight may be the best night of the year! He should be here in half an hour - oh, I have so much to do! How do I look, Daddy?