Seeking a Refuge (24)

Mary Smith put the newspaper down, slightly trying to mask the evident joy on her face. She looked at Stephanie who had just joined her on the sofa:1

“How was your date?”2

The teenager found it unusual for her mother to stay up until such a late hour of a Monday night, but with her psychological skills she understood in a minute what it was all about.3

“I told you a million times, Mom, that was no date!” she exclaimed, looking the other direction. “Chris is the new librarian at my school. We just became friends.”4

“Sure, whatever,” Mary pretended to agree, grinning. “How was your... appointment, then, dear?”5

“It was fine, but Chris really managed to get on my nerves,” she answered, gesturing frantically. “He didn’t let me pay for his dinner at the luxurious restaurant he made me go to - ok, I get that, it just might have to do with pride; but he even wanted to pay for my own meal! Damn it, I was the one to invite him in the first place!” However, her ample moves suggested another state of spirit than annoyance, and the girl reddened helplessly. 6

“Well,” Mrs. Smith said peacefully, “Didn’t you tell him you have to take your revenge for that?” 7

Although Stephanie hated it when her mother made such allusions, she didn’t stop talking:8

“Yep. I will. On Thursday, right after school. I told him that I only accept broke guys around me on Thursdays.”9

“And? What did he say?”10

“Well, he suggested Friday, when he can’t stand but beggar girls,” she winked at Mary.11

“Now, I think I’m going to bed,” Stephanie said, getting out of the living room.12

“Hi,” Steve welcomed her seriously. 13

“Hey, Steve,” she tried to cheer him up, patting him on the shoulder. “How are you?”14

“I’m ok, how was your appointment?” he said, leading the way to the bedroom. 15

“Oh... it was ok. Chris was very funny and kind. I think he was just going through some sort of weird teenage phase,” Stephanie answered expressively, as she wrapped her left arm around her boyfriend.16

“Would you like to put on some music?” the girl suggested.17

“Sure.” Steve pressed the play button on their old CD player, and Ann’s Greek tunes filled the room, but neither of them was interested in what was playing. They sat side by side, listening.18

After a short time, Stephanie spoke, studying the shape of her toenails:19

“Are you upset because of me seeing Chris? I can stop, you know...”20

“No, I don’t mind that,” Steve answered flatly.21

“I just need some fresh air. But, please, don’t mind me; I’m just in a bad mood that will pass in the blink of an eye,” the prince said curving his lips artificially. “Don’t worry.” And he just got out, leaving his lover alone with her uncertainties just when she needed some time alone. Like usual, it was nothing but a coincidence.22