s e r e n d i p i t y

Ch.4

I rush through school today, unable to focus on any of my classes. How could I anyway?  I mean, I'm only going out with the prettiest girl alive. An exasperated sigh escapes my lips as the final bell rings. "Alright! Have a fun, safe weekend guys!" Mr. Heaton, my English teacher, calls out. I linger in the back of the classroom, hoping to ask for tips. After everyone leaves, he catches sight of me and strides over, seating himself on a desk.

"Is there something you'd like to talk to me about Finn?"

I could easily say Mr. Heaton is my favorite teacher. He's just so chill and understanding. I shift my weight and try to form what I'm going to say.

"Can I get your advice on how to act at a date?" I blurt out, my pale face turning red.

His eyes sparkle with a glint of humor while he cracks a smile.

"Of course Finn, of course. Who's the lucky girl?"

Mr. Heaton is the only teacher who knows about my crush on Millie; another reason I chose to ask him.

"Millie,"

he raises his eyebrows in shock then claps his hands.

"That's great!"

"It's actually for a project.." I confess.

"Still a date nevertheless!"

I feel a little bit of hope rising in me. What if it ends up like those books and movies? You know the ones where the awkward guy gets the pretty, popular girl in the end?  My heart races at the thought.

"True,"

I look down at my dirty old sneakers. These for sure won't do.

"Well, you want to dress nice. Also, ask her questions about herself. Like, 'how's your day?' Or 'what do you like to do for fun?' things like that."

He pauses momentarily and snaps his fingers like he forgot something.

"Ah! Got it, also, don't forget to compliment her. Girls love that stuff."

I nod my head and make a mental checklist.
Dress nice,
Ask her questions
&
Compliment her.

This will be easy, right?