Chemical Bliss

Chapter 6: Embarrassing Fall

It didn't take long for Yasmine and Ryder to reach the gates of the cinema inside Macy's mall. They had chosen to see "After Everything," a highly anticipated romance film. Once inside the dimly lit cinema, they found their seats in the middle of the row, ready for the exhilaration they were about to embark on. As the lights dimmed and the movie began, the couple settled in, their hands occasionally finding each other in the darkness. The screen came to life with the captivating love story, and they were both immediately drawn into the world of the characters. The film didn't disappoint. It was a beautiful, heartfelt journey filled with love, laughter, and tears. As the story unfolded, some people in the audience couldn't help but get emotional. Sniffles and soft sobs could be heard throughout the cinema, but Yasmine and Ryder remained absorbed in the film. They shared a box of buttery popcorn, occasionally stealing glances at each other during the most touching moments. The movie seemed to fly by, even though it was 1 hour and 33 minutes long. When it was over, they were in no rush to leave. They waited until the last of the audience had made their way out of the cinema. As they strolled through the mall's corridors, they couldn't stop talking about how good the movie was.

Yasmine: I usually don't watch romantic films, but this one was quite touching. I almost cried.

Ryder: Yeah, that was something special. I'm glad we saw it together.

Ryder: Maybe we will experience something romantic like the main guy and girl.

Yasmine: Not sure. I'm still too young for romance. I'm only supposed to focus on studies and chores at this age, according to my parents.

Ryder: They need to let go of this traditional mentality they have. It's not like you're not allowed to live, Yasmine.

Yasmine: I know...But they're too stubborn. I can't argue with them.

After leaving the cinema, Yasmine and Ryder decided to grab a bite to eat at a Chick-Fil-A stand to talk about many other things and continue their night out. They still had a few more hours left until it was time for Yasmine to sneak back home without her parents knowing she went out. As they approached the Chick-fil-A stand, they noticed that it was bustling with people. The aroma of freshly cooked chicken wafted through the air, enticing their taste buds even more. They joined the line, which was moving steadily but was quite long due to the crowd. The line snaked around the stand, with many people patiently waiting around. After the person in front of them paid with his credit card, it was finally their turn to order.

Clerk: Hi, what can I get for you both?

Ryder: Hey, can I get the grilled chicken sandwich meal with fries and a large cup of Pepsi...

Ryder: I would also like some ketchup and mustard, please...

Clerk: He turned to Yasmine. Ok, what about you?

Yasmine: I just want the original classic chicken sandwich meal with fries and a medium cup of water. I'll also have some ketchup.

Clerk: Done! Your meal will be ready shortly. Go ahead and scan.

They waited for a few minutes until their number was called. They grabbed their tray of meals and sat back down. Yasmine felt a mix of gratitude and a touch of guilt about Ryder paying for both of their meals. She appreciated his gesture but didn't want to take advantage of his generosity.

Yasmine: You sure you were okay with paying for both of our meals? I felt bad for not having my credit card out.

Ryder: He shook his head. Nope, perfectly fine with me. I didn't mind that.

Yasmine: I'm also supposed to buy AirPods for my brother as part of the deal for me sneaking out tonight.

Ryder: Let's go look for AirPods together after this. I'm sure we can find something.