Magical San Diego

Penney Cockle was thinking about Simon Meadows again. Simon was a modest, down to earth boy with blond hair and smooth skin. He knew Penney better than anyone in the world.

Penney walked over to the window and reflected on her sunny surroundings. She had always loved magical San Diego with its barbecued, bulbous beaches. It was a place that encouraged her tendency to feel peaceful.

Then she saw something in the distance, or rather someone. It was the tall figure of Simon Meadows.

Penney gulped. She glanced at her own reflection. She was a quiet, wild, tea drinker with pretty hair and tan skin. Her friends saw her as a compassionate, kind sea turtle, which she thought was weird comparison. Once, she had even helped an old man cross the road.

But not even a compassionate person who had once helped an old man cross the road, was prepared for what Simon had in store for her today.

The sun shone like sea salt, making Penney thoughtful. Penney grabbed an enchanted book that had been placed nearby; she massaged it with her fingers.

As Penney stepped outside and Simon came closer, she could see a nervous glint in his eye.

Simon gazed with the affection of a loyal dog. He said, in hushed tones, "I love you. I've loved you since I first laid eyes on you."

Penney looked back, even more Quiet and still fingering the enchanted book. Simon, I love you too, she thought in her head.

They looked at each other with ecstatic feelings, like two forgotten wolves howling at the moon. It felt that her entire life had led to this moment.

But she knew it could never be. Her religion would not allow it.

Her religion forbid that she go out with anyone who did not believe what she did.

Penney studied Simon's blond hair and smooth skin. Eventually, she took a deep breath. "I'm sorry," began Penney in apologetic tones, "but I don't feel the same way, and I never will. I just don't love you Simon."

Simon looked confused, his emotions raw like a bad, blushing plumb.

Penney could actually hear Simon's emotions shatter into pieces. Then the heartbroken teenager hurried away into the distance.

Not even a drink of tea would calm Penney's nerves tonight.

THE END