A date with Jessica

We walk outside into the park, observing the black skies with glistening little stars shining above so numerously and the cool hair hitting our faces. Out at the park, tall lamps lit up like fireflies lighting up the walkways with students at every bench or around the center fountain just sitting down, talking or playing music.

“This is nice.” I say after a moment of silence between the two of us. “Yes, it is. So Alex, what’s your story?” I looked at her catching her curious glance. “Hm?” “Your story, how were you before you got here and how did you get here?” Oh. I looked away for a second in hesitation, thinking about my past school and past friends. “Alex?” “Um, right my past stuff. Well... what do you wanna do, is there anywhere you’d like me to start?” She paused for a second thinking. “Mmm, let’s start with your name and family. You want this to be a date right? I would kind of have to know a better idea of who you are if that is the case.”

“Right right.” I agreed, chuckling nervously. “Huh, that’s funny though cuz I don’t know your last name either.” “It’s Huarez.” “Oh? Jessica Huarez?” I looked up and she nodded. “Pretty name to fit a prettt face.” We stopped walking next to a bench that she then sat down on. “You know, you’re good at flattering but that can only do so much. Sit.” I shrug and sit next to her. “Well, my full name is Alex Lopez.” “Alex Lopez... no middle name?” I nodded. “Garcia.” “Alex Garcia Lopez... cute name for a cute face.” She responds with me laughing softly. “Sneaky.”

“So Alex, what do you have in mind for tonight?” I shook my head. “I’ll be honest, I have no clue. I mean I’m still new to the place and I just now found where my classes are. I’m like a mouse in a maze, I have no idea where to go or start.” Jessica leaned back against the bench. “Well, start one day at a time.” I look at her as she continues, “Don’t think about all the problems and stresses and obstacles in life, because those thoughts will overlap and you’ll find yourself overwhelmed and what good would that do?” “You saying that from experience?” “Maybe.” She turned to face me as I sat up straight. “But something I’ve heard helps is to close your eyes and breath in, then let it out. Think of it as a bad dream, you’ll slowly open your eyes and start to recover quick.”

“Well damn Jessie, anybody ever tell you you got a way with words?” “No, but I’m told I’m a good listener.” She smiles and grabs my hand. “You wanna go out for a drink? You can get a soda.” I nod as we get up to leave. “Don’t think I’ve forgotten, I do wanna get to know you more Alex. But that can wait if you’d like to relax and enjoy our night instead.”

I smiled, this girl sure has a way with words. “Yea, I’d like that.” We started walking away, spending the rest of the night one step at a time.