E i g h t e e n

"If you hold that pen harder I think it will break." I look down at my hands. Indeed the pen is almost to its point break, so I relaxed my grip. I examine, and as I look, I notice it is a bit bent, but I'll survive its purpose. I make a face to the kid seated beside me at class and turn back to the lecture. Whatever has been said, I have no idea. I'm going to have to read the whole chapter for the next class. "You ok there?"

"Yes," I say without turning to whoever he is.

"You don't look ok."

"I am."

"Then go out with me."

"What?" This time I do turn around. I remember his face from somewhere but can't place a name, he's cute, my age, but I have no idea who he is.

"A date?" he smiles and leans closer.

"Why?"

"Why not?" He shrugs.

Exactly Dolly, why wouldn't he want to date you? You're pretty decent on the eyes, and you are in his age range and all. He doesn't look like a controlling person or like he will ignore