CHAPTER SEVEN

I flashed my trademark smile to myself for the last time, left the house and locked up. I went to my car humming a song I didn’t know the name of and started the car. I turned the radio on and sang along with Radiohead’s Karma Police. 

I felt how I was getting more excited as I neared her house. I turned into the street and I could’ve sworn that the butterflies were attacking each other with a great speed. I forgot all about that when I saw the door opening and recognised Dan Kennard’s silhouette. Another person was standing in front of him, something huge in his or her hands. When I came closer, I recognised Eric Dumberson. I parked my car wondering what that was about. Had I missed Tina suggesting to take Eric with us?

I got out of the car, locked it and walked up to the door. I stood still behind Eric and listened to his words.

“I came to see Tina, sir. I want to take your daughter out on a date as a surprise. I have been giving this a lot of thought and I decided that the two of us could really make it together. Is she at home?”

I coughed, Eric jumped up and turned around. 

“She is home, but not for long anymore,” I said. “You see, Tina is already going out on a date tonight. With me. So, get lost.” 

Tina stood next to her dad now and looked just as confused as I was.

“Hi, mr Kennard. I mean, Dan.” I always forgot I should call him by his first name, until he gave me that glare. “Are you ready to come, Tina?” I asked her confidently. 

She smiled and nodded, then looked at Eric doubtfully. He looked stunned at my sudden appearance. I grinned and patted him on the shoulder. “Too bad for you, I guess. Better luck next time!”

He finally seemed to come to his senses. “Bette? But… I’ve got a surprise for Tina! She has to come with me.”

“I don’t have to do anything,” Tina said annoyed. “I do what I want and what I want is to go with Bette. You know, normal people ask the girl they fancy if they even want to date them before they go planning the entire thing and then show up unexpectedly.”