Really don't try

Ethan decides, perhaps poorly, not to try.

After finishing off their coffees and the dessert the bill comes. Even though she’s claiming to not keep score, Ethan still pays it, just in case.

“Well,” Ashley smiles scooting out of her booth seat. “Not a bad first date, I think you’ve earned a second.”

“Aha,” Ethan follows suit, scooting out and standing. “And when what classic movie will we be watching next?”

Ashley considers the question. “Well, maybe we’ve both earned a break from those. It might not feel like it, but there is more to do in town than watch movies.”

Ethan can’t really think of much.

The two exit the diner, stepping out onto the sidewalk. Turning to Ethan, Ashley reaches into her purse and hands him a slip of paper. “My number.”

“Ah,” Ethan looks at the paper, admiring the incredibly feminine penmanship.

“Call me in a few days and maybe we can get something on the books.”

“Why a few days?” Ethan pockets the paper. “Can’t I just call you tomorrow?”

Ashley snorts. “That sounds a little too much like ‘going steady’. I don’t think I’m quite into that sort of energy yet.”

“Yet.” Ethan echoes.

Smirking, Ashley turns and walks about, waving over her shoulder. “See ya around, ‘City-boy’. Call me.”

Ethan cringes, the way she called him ‘City-boy’ a perfect copy of her sister's delivery. “See ya around.”

Left alone on the sideway, Ethan decides he should head home.