You go to the ice cream parlor in the mall

“You know the ice cream parlor in the mall?” you ask, leading the way, “I thought we could go there. Just like the times before I knew your secret.”

“I remember the place,” Jenny says happily, “oh lord. We haven’t been there for how long now? Must be a year by now. I think we both grew tired of it because it was the only place we could date.”

“Well cinema and nightclubs didn’t work, since no dogs are allowed inside,” you joke, “so … yes, it was one of the few places we could date.”

“In that case, lead the way,” Jenny says and gently holds your hand, “You think we could walk there?”

“As long as you hold my hand, we can,” you answer and kiss your girlfriend on the cheek, “It’s a nice hand. Even with the occasional fur and murderous claws. To be honest, I would recommend that you change your beauty salon.”

“Sammy's been doing my hair and nails for a few years now,” Jenny answers, “it’s a hobby for her and she isn't bad at it. Though I'm her only customer since I'm the only human that knows about her.”

“How does she manage?” you ask in confusion, ”I mean … even a small hairbrush is bigger than her.”

“Magic,” Jenny answers, smiling.

You enjoy a short walk to the ice cream parlor with the sun shining warmly. It’s a really nice day for a date. You talk about some things on your way to the mall, mostly about mundane things rather than magic. Jenny eagerly tells you the latest gossip she's heard from her sports team in the locker room. One of the main topics is the new relationship between Leyla and Tom. They seem to have planned a weekend trip to the beach. Well, it’s not too unusual since Leyla has the money for it.

When you enter the ice cream parlor, you are greeted by a smiling, blonde girl in a pink uniform. You need a moment to realize that it‘s your classmate Candy. She looks much better, clearly sober and happy. A welcome difference to the last time you saw her.

“Hi Candy,” you greet her with a smile, “nice to see you smiling without being drunk. Your new job has been good for you.”

“It is,” Candy responds and hugs Jenny “Hi boss. Nice to meet you too.”

“How are you doing, Candy?” Jenny asks, “I heard you got a job but I didn’t know it was here.”

“I’m fine, thanks,” Candy answers. “I had a long talk with my parents and they agreed to let me stay here as long as I earn my own money, stop binge drinking and improve my grades. I’m glad I can spend my summer with you guys and my boyfriend. I hope he doesn't get jealous since I'm already getting asked out by a customer on my first working day.”

“Tutoring starts on Monday,” you blandly inform Candy, “I‘m glad you're fine. I’m sure we can improve your grades so you pass the final exams. I can still hardly believe you have a boyfriend. The last relationship I saw you in was at the lake party where you molested my girlfriend.”

“Thanks for reminding me,” Candy replied grinning, “don’t worry, boss. We can keep our love a secret from our boyfriends.”

“Shut up and give us a table,” Jenny retorts petting Candy’s head, “we're here for a date, not to get you an extra break.”