Jack Wilder: Sorcerer's Rising

An Interesting First Date

Chapter 5

“I like the car, its a 65' right?” Gabriela asked as they perused into town.

Jack smiled lightly at her, “How did you know?”

“My dad has a 67' its his favorite car. Though I used to go to events with him that had all the antique and newer model chevys so I have come to know a few of the cooler models. You have a thing for American cars don't you? I have seen that you usually drive that Challenger.” She inquired curiously.

Nodding slightly Jack recalled, “Yeah my dad taught us to be true Americans in culture. We go out of our way to by American products. He was in the military for a long time and was a true patriot. As we grew up he taught me how to build cars and stuff with him, but obviously he only allowed American cars into his garage palace. So when I became fifteen he helped me start building my challenger. Then of course after he passed I took all his antique cars and stored them away. I thought you might enjoy the convertible since it is so beautiful outside.”

Taking his hand that was on the clutch she gave him a heart melting smile, “It was a good call Jack. So where are we going, you haven't told me yet. Or should I be worried? This could have been a very subtle kidnapping!”

“Nah, my brother says I am not very subtle. We are going to a cool little club, its the official teenage hangout. Cool music, cool people, cool atmosphere.”

Nodding her head she responded cheekily, “Sounds cool.” Jack nodded his head in response and she continued, “So what is your little brother doing tonight?”

Jack shrugged his shoulders, “His best friend James is at the house. They are going to play video games, hang out, the house is well equipped for just chilling so they will keep busy until I take you home tonight.”

“So you just left him at home? You must trust him a lot.” Gabriela said gently.

“He is mature for his age. Not to mention very well trained. There is enough weapons in the house that he could take care of himself if the need arose. Plus Julian is going to check on him at about 830 before he heads out to the club. To answer your rhetorical statement though, yeah I trust him with everything. He has never let me down, or given me a reason not to trust him. So my faith is in his hands, until he betrays it. Loyalty is everything to a Wilder.” Jack explained in a even voice.

“Good to know. You seem to have a lot of pressure on you for a seventeen year old boy.” Gabriela said underhandedly.

Jack smiled at her, “I wish I could say I was still a boy. Age doesn't determine things like that, actions do. My actions have made me a man. I have taken in a young teenager, I have been raising him for nearly a year now. I have done everything I could to take care of the two of us. I am responsible and I pay the bills. I take care of myself and my little brother. I think my actions speak clearly, I am a man. For the most part stuck in a child's life. Ten more days though, and it will be official though.”

“That makes sense, and you are right of course. So as a man, how do you feel? Ready for college? Maybe a serious girlfriend? A wife? Kids? Where do you stand in the big circle of life Mr. Wilder?”

Jack laughed heartily, “Those are pretty serious questions for a first date.”

She laughed gently, which honestly made music sound dull in Jack's ears, “I am just curious. This is what I would call getting to know each other. Plus you seem so secretive, very cryptic as well. You almost never give straight answers to personal questions. I give it to you, you would make one hell of a politician.”

“How about this. If this date goes well, then on the ride home I will gladly answer any questions fairly. How does that sound?”

“Sounds fantastic Wilder, I look forward to your answers.” She answered evenly.