the mall of course

"Let's go ahead and get the mall out the way," she tells you. "I gotta get food that will spoil if we go grocery shopping first."

"Ok," you say as you back out of McDonald's. She asks you, "How do you feel about us?"

"What do you mean?" you ask.

"Well, I was wanting to know if you wanted to have a girlfriend," she says. "I like hanging out with you and was wondering how you felt."

"I'm not too sure I'm ready to call you my girlfriend yet," you say.

"I understand," she says. "Maybe I am rushing things a bit. I'm sorry."

You and her talk like you've been friends for years on the way to the mall. You find a parking place and sit in the car for a few minutes. She kisses you softly on the lips, and says, "It's just that I picture us being together. I like you a lot, John."

"I like you a lot, too, Amy. It's just that I'm not ready for that type of commitment," you reply.

You and her get out of the car and head into the mall. She takes your hand tentatively, and you don't pull away. Interlacing her fingers with yours, you go through the main entrance hand in hand. You feel a twinge of jealousy as heads turn to take a second look at the woman on your arm.

"I have to go to the bathroom," she announces suddenly.

"OK, I'll wait here," you say. "Don't be too long or I'll have to come in after you," you say.

You find a bench to sit on, and wait. Five minutes pass by, then ten and twenty.

Worried, you go to the door of the ladies room. You hear Amy's voice. "LEAVE ME ALONE," she screams. You go in and find someone pinning her up against the wall. He hasn't seen you, so you have the advantage.