Ruth again

'Good morning, Mr. and Mrs. Pratchett! Good morning kids! Good morning, Stephen!' She looked at me with the widest smile when she addressed me, and I gave her a confused but pleasant smile back. She wore a long colorful summer dress, and her golden hair hung braided over one shoulder. The little church mouse looked positively hot in this attire, and I could feel that my morning erection hadn't fully subsided yet.

'Good morning, Ruth,' my mother said. 'What brings you here on this fine morning?'

'God has blessed us with bright skies, Mrs. Pratchett,' Ruth said happily. 'I was just wondering if Stephen can spare some time to go for a walk with me.'

'Of course he does,' my father said, looking at me meaningfully. 'Stephen, take young Ruth here for a nice stroll. It will do the two of you good to spend time together and reflect on the Lord's blessings.'

'Oh what a fine idea!' mother exclaimed. 'Have fun you two!'

I got up from my chair, a little apprehensive at this particular reaction from my parents. I knew exactly what they were thinking. In Ruth they had found a good christian girl, who shared their values exactly and was what they would call "proper". Naturally they had seen her as a perfect fit for their son, who was sometimes straying too far from the path to God's glory. They probably expected me to marry her as soon as possible and put a child in her so they could become grandparents.

Ruth grabbed my hand to my surprise, and together we slowly strolled away. When we were safely out of earshot, I asked; 'What do you think you're doing, Ruth?'

She looked surprised by my question, and answered; 'I... just wanted to see you, Stephen. Shouldn't I have done that?'

I felt bad about her response, and I wasn't someone with a particularly strong back-bone, so I said; 'You can always come see me, Ruth. I'm sorry, I was just a bit surprised, that's all.'

Her lips formed themselves in her recognizable bright smile, as she said; 'Oh, that's good Stephen! I was surprised as well! The truth is... I have to confess something to you about yesterday... I -'

I cut her off. 'Not here, Ruth. Maybe somewhere private?' On the sand path we were walking, a lot of the other camp visitors were making their way to the recreation center. As it was quite busy, the chance that we would be overheard was considerable, and I couldn't be responsible for Ruth's excommunication.

'I know a little place,' she jumped up excitedly, and led me along the path until there were less people about. 'It's a little hidden, so follow me.'