Prelude to his first attempt to date since that day

I am no longer a student.
-Super!
But actually things were far from perfect. I didn’t even attend the prom, and when I got my diploma I became a laughing stock in front of everyone. Anyway I had found a purpose in my otherwise aimless life: To find a girlfriend! Sounds original. Or maybe not so much. How would I know that? As I pondered, I decided to get some fresh air.
-Who knows? I might get an idea.
-Who are you talking about, Deni?
-To no one, Mom. I’m going out, can you give me some money to get something?
-Just this once, son. You’re big enough for that now.
-Thanks, Mom. I’ll go now.
-Just don’t slam the door!
I didn’t hear what Mum said and I left quickly.
-A good place? Maybe downtown?
I went to the bus stop and after a short wait the bus came. The driver opened the door.
-Excuse me, does the bus go through downtown?
-Yes, it does.
I get in and sat in the last seat. It was easiest for me to relax there.
-Hey. Pay your fare. Are you asleep?
The conductor sighs.
-I’m awake. How much is the ticket?
-Are you a student?
-What do I look like to you?
-A student ticket is 75 cents.
I dug in my pocket and pulled out some coins. I wasn’t going to change the misunderstanding. I’m still 18 years old. I was born on the seventh of July.
-There you go.
I didn’t pay attention to how much I gave her.
-It’s 87 cents. Here’s 12 cents change.
-Thank you.
She didn’t look old, but she didn’t look young either. Definitely not my type. As I waited for the bus to get downtown I decided to see how I was dressed.
-Oh, no. I’m casually dressed. Whatever. It’s too late now.
I fixed my hair a little. Nevertheless, people kept looking at me strangely. Nothing could be done about it. I had to accept it.
-Next stop downtown. Get ready to get off.
It was time to get off. The bus stopped and many other passengers got off before me. I got off after them too.
-Where do I start?
Downtown features mostly coffee shops, fast food places, a bookstore, a movie theater, a courthouse, a supermarket, a park where couples often walked.
-I’ll go there!
I shouted loudly.
-Is he retarded?
-Leave him alone. It’s for your own good.
-Boys, leave the poor guy.
-You’re too sweet, Mom.
-That it. That’s why Daddy managed to lie to you about his uncle dying when he really wanted to get away from you. You were pregnant with us.
Something mom and her kids were talking about. It didn’t concern me. Full ahead to the park. There’s a fountain there too. Who knows, I might get lucky. After walking for about five minutes I could see it now.
-A bit more.
A few minutes and I was there. Finally.
-Now what?
Then I heard a middle-aged man shouting.
-If you want to start going out with a girl buy this book. There’s nothing impossible!
-Sounds like something that would help me.
-So, the only impossible thing is selling it to someone.
-Who reads books nowadays, old man?
-I bet you never went out with a girl.
The bullies were harassing him. I could see he had a booth where he let his book go on sale. The title was, “How to Get a Girl to go out with you.”
-You kids! How are you not ashamed! Of course I went out with girls!
-In a dating simulator?
-Let’s go, man.
The bullies left, laughing at him.
-I’m selling a book on how to manage to go out with a girl. Without any problems. Just follow what’s written. Whoever takes it in the next 30 minutes will pay half and I’ll sign it for him.
Sounds interesting.
-Hey, man. How much is the book gonna cost?
-Hey loser-young boy. It’s 10 Euros, but I’ll give it to you for 5. You get my signature and here’s some condoms. Not that you’ll ever use them.
-Excuse me?
-Forget the last line I said. Here, I sign the cover.
-Thank you. Here’s 5 Euro.
-Here’s your book and everything and good luck.
-Thank you very much.
-Good luck, my ass. I think I’ll have to find another place to sell it.
The writer of the book seemed very excited that I bought his book. I didn’t understand what he said, though. It sure doesn’t concern me.
-Now, where do I read it? Maybe here in some café? Why not? I might get a chance to experience some of the stuff.
I dug into my pocket and had exactly 2 Euros.
-Where can I find a café with young girls?
I looked here and there and saw a beautiful waitress next to a café.
-So that’s where we’ll go.
-Just don’t let that idiot come to us. Literally no one bought this fake author’s stupid book.
I confidently made my way to the café.
-Oh, no. He’s coming. Boss, can I leave early?
-How many times did you ask for it this month? Are you asking me to fire you?
-But weirdos come here.
-They come because of you, not because you are a good waitress. If you leave now, you better get another job.
-Well…
The cafe wasn’t bad. There was a bar inside and a great view of the fountain outside. I decided to sit outside.
-Mr. Customer, please take the menu.
-Thank you very much.
-If you decide to order, call me. Now I have other customers to serve.
-No, you don’t have, Rosa.
A woman called from the bar.
-I-It doesn’t seem that to be the case. So take your time and order whenever you want. Oh-I’m going to get you a glass of water.
-Thank you very much.
-You are welcome.
The waitress didn’t seem to be enjoying herself. But what could be the reason I didn’t know. Let’s see the menu.
It’s a little expensive, but can I afford something? Fresh fruit juice. Sounds good.
-I hope you’re doing it for him and not just to get away.
-No, there’s no such thing, Ivelina. Sorry, boss.
-Here’s the glass of water. Give it to him.
-All right.
-And smile. You have a charming smile, and the way you are now, even the dead will understand that you don’t want to be near to them.
The waitress sort of nodded, but whatever it was probably didn’t matter. I saw her return with a glass of water.
-There you go your glass of water. Have you decided yet?
-Thank you very much for the water. Do you make juice from fresh nectarines.
-Yes. Would you like some ice cubes?
-Yes, if you can have the ice cubes separately in a container.
-Understood. I’m going back now.
The waitress made her way to the bar. Then I noticed that the TV was on. The channel wasn’t familiar to me, but they were playing good music. It must have been one of those ones you pay extra.
-One nectarine juice and a bunch of ice in a separate container.
-Did I tell you something?
-Yeah, but I can’t prete-
-You have to if you want to work here. Do you know how many girls are envious of you?
-Why didn’t you hire them?
-Because I have an eye for what kind of girls I want to work here.
While they were talking her boss made nectarine juice.
-And what’s so special about me?
-Why don’t you go ask him? Now take his order and don’t you dare think of refusing him. Whatever he asks do not refuse. Unless he asks that of you, then you can.
-And does that include a date?
-You won’t refuse that. You need to pull yourself together and stop being shy.
-Don’t ask me. I hope he won’t ask me.
-I could have sworn I heard that song somewhere.
-Yes, it was a hit and word got around fast, and now here’s your order.
-Thank you very much.
There were a couple of ice cubes in the conteiner, but they were enough. I couldn’t ask for more. Now let me read from the book while I listen to the music. Let’s see. I pulled out the book and opened to the first page.
(Oh no, this guy is really going to read the book.)
-Let’s see.
To have successful dates you need to be prepared. Every girl wants her boyfriend to have money. Possibly a car. It takes money to have a license and a car, and it takes job to earn.
-It makes sense.
-What does it makes sense?
-I was talking to myself.
If you go on a date with a girl and you don’t have money, things won’t work out. Without money the date is doomed to fail, but if you have money everything can go smoothly. Additionally, you can easily make a plan for the date. For example, in the morning invite her for coffee, at noon go to the park for a picnic and eat, in the afternoon go around the park and clothes shops(they love to do that). In the late afternoon watch a movie at the cinema and in the evening have dinner at an expensive restaurant. This plan guarantees you a perfect date and much more, while being penniless things are limited and women expect it’s mainly the men who work and earn the money.
-Is it really?
-Are you asking me?
-Did I really ask out loud?
-Yes. What do you want to know.
-Do you have to have money to go out with a girl?
-To be honest, I don’t know, but I guess so.
But there’s one important thing before that. Find the type of girl you’re looking for. Don’t go asking for perfect or impossible things. Even if the date is perfect you and the girl can remain friends. So you better try to set your requirements, but don’t let too much to limit the possibilities. For example: naturally blonde, blue eyes, smart, athlete’s body, big breasts and as tall as you are would be difficult. If you try for example charming, with beautiful eyes and well shaped body it will be easier.
-Wouldn’t happen with the perfect girl, huh?
-You are reading that guy’s book, aren’t you?
-Yes, it helps me a lot.
-I don’t think so. So you’re really that desperate to go out with a girl?
-Not exactly, but I’m looking for a girlfriend.
-Haven’t you had one yet?
-No, and the girl I asked to prom turned me down and I’m afraid of being rejected again.
-Sure, she was right.
-R-O-S-A.
-Yeah, boss.
-You remember what I told you, didn’t you?
-Yes. Geez, forget what I said. I don’t know you yet.
-Nothing, I know I’m just a loser. It’s not like I’ve decided to be one. It’s just the stupid bullies won’t let me rest.
-Has it been that bad?
-Yeah. Sometimes they’d lock me in the locker, sometimes they’d pull my pants so people can see my boxers. Many times I ran away from them until someone else caught me and held me until the bullies caught up with me.
-I wish I had been there.
-R-O-S-A. Do you want to work without pay this month?
-No. I meant it must have been pretty hard for you, Mr. Customer.
-The name’s Deni. Yeah, it was really hard.
-I’m Rosa. I’m basically seventeen, but I work here anyway. What about you?
-Well, this year was my prom, which would make me eighteen.
-Aren’t you nineteen?
-No, I’ll be turning seven on 7th July. Maybe now’s a good time.
-What for?
-You look superb. How about we go out on a date?
-Well.
-R-O-S-A.
-I wasn’t too direct, was I?
-No, we just barely know each other and I don’t know how to react, but why not?
(Boss will kill me if I refuse.)
-Is it a problem that I’m unemployed?
-No, it’s not. Where are we going?
-Let me think about it. Are you free tomorrow?
-No, I’m not.
-Actually, it is. She’s working without a break and I decided to give her a day off. You don’t mind, do you, Rosa?
-Yes, thank you very much, boss.
-How does 10 o’clock sound around here?
-Well, can’t it be 11?
-All right, just make sure you come.
-I will be there.
Then the conversation ended, I decided to drink my juice and listen to the songs. Meeting a girl, huh? Doesn’t sound bad at all. It wasn’t long before I drank the juice and only the ice cubes remained in the glass. I gave her 2 Euro and left feeling hopeful. Unfortunately, I had to walk home, but I felt like I was floating on clouds. I was in front of us imperceptibly fast. I opened the door.
-Mom, I’m home.
-There’s my boy. Didn’t you hear that I said to not slam the door?
-I didn’t hear it.
-Wait a minute. I sense something. You haven’t found a girlfriend, did you?
-Not exactly, but I asked a girl out.
-Oh, my little cutie. Do you have any cash? An empty pocket will get you nowhere.
-Well, about that…
-I’ll give you some money, but it’s time to seriously look for a job. Even if it’s part-time.
-All right, Mom.
-Just remember not to act like the school bullies or the brats, but like a gentleman.
-Have you ever seen me do such a thing, Mom?
-And I said so until I got drunk for the first time. Since then when I get drunk I can’t control myself and the next day I don’t remember what I did.
-Didn’t you tell me that’s how you got pregnant?
-Yes. So don’t drink alcohol. A little bit only if the girl insists.
-All right, whatever you say.
-Dinner’s served. Eat and get ready, and I’ll iron your clothes for tomorrow.
I nodded and headed for the living room. Kačamak was waiting for me there. Looks like mom decided to do something simple today. It didn’t matter because whatever she was making was damn tasty. I hurriedly ate my portion, got up and washed my plate. Then my teeth in the bathroom. At least twenty times I wondered if it was true before I fell asleep.

Deni’s very first date

I got up and headed for the living room. I hadn’t even dressed. Just in a t-shirt and boxers, but it didn’t matter. That’s where I saw Mom.
-Good morning, Mom!
-Good morning! Today’s a big day. So I decided to make your favorite meal.
-Curried rice?
-Even better.
-I give up.
-Rice cupcakes.
-But Mom, that was when I was little.
-And you’re still a little boy to Mom.
-Mom!
-And another thing, the cupcakes with vanilla cream filling.
-What about something else?
-Don’t insult your mother since I’ve been making them since 6:30.
-Damn. Okay, I’ll eat them.
It wasn’t the ideal breakfast, but better than being on an empty stomach. I picked up a cup and set it on the table. I went to the fridge and open it. I took out the milk and poured some into the cup. Then I put the milk back in the fridge. Mom hadn’t baked cupcakes in a while, but they always go well with cold milk. Divine. Or maybe not, but for old times sake. I remember how the bullies regularly harassed me about them. Back in first grade.
-I see Dencho the girlie boy carrying something in his food box.
-What are you carrying, girlie boy?
-Rice cupcakes with chocolate filling.
-Let’s see them.
-Why?
-Because Yanni said so!
-Why? Now open the box or you’re screwed.
-Teacher! Help me!
-I’m sorry. I’m polishing my nails and texting someone on my phone.
-But, but!
-Later.
Then Yanni took the box from my hands and opened it and split the cupcakes with his three subordinates.
-They’re very tasty, girlie boy.
-They’re not bad.
-So-so.
Since then I learned a valuable lesson: to hide whatever Mom makes, but the bullies kept finding the lunchbox.
Damn them. That was stealing. I was left hungry many days at school. That’s life, everyоне would say, but the truth was one: they went unpunished. No one cared, and those who saw it pretended they saw nothing.
-Tasty as ever, Mom.
-Thank you. Once you’ve had a nice meal and you’re ready the date will go smoothly.
-I wish it were that easy.
-Dates aren’t that big a deal.
-For you.
-It’s important to show the lady who you are, and you may not be a model from a magazine for handsome men, but you’re not like the guys who harassed you either.
-Mom!
-It’s important to have confidence in yourself. Now, eat and get ready.
I nodded and continued to eat the cupcakes and drink the cold milk.
-Reminds me of my childhood. Wait a minute, now didn’t I just remind myself of it?
-You used to have them taken away from you.
-Did I say it out loud?
-No, but I think I know what you’re talking about.
I ate and got up with the cup and saucer.
-Let me wash them.
-Leave it to Mom, darling. You go take a shower and change.
-You say it like I smell. I forgot to take a shower yesterday.
-For girls, it matters. Also wear good perfume.
-But you always give me women’s because they’re on sale.
-I think there was a men’s perfume somewhere. Yeah. I’ll find it after I wash the dishes.
-Well, I hope so, because I’ve been laughed at more than once for smelling like women’s perfume.
-But it was fun, wasn’t it?
-Just you and the bullies.
-What are you waiting for?
Mom pushed me out of the living room and I headed for my room.
-Clothes. Taken off. Towel. Around the waist. Slippers. On the feet. Well, let’s go.
I opened the door from my room and nearly killed myself. I don’t remember drinking alcohol recently unless Mom put some in the cupcakes. Step by step I walked down to the bathroom. It wasn’t much: shower and toilet.
I opened the shelf with my stuff in the bathroom. There was the shampoo and shower gel. In the mirror, I saw a little beard starting to grow.
-This needs to be taken care of.
Unfortunately I had neither a razor nor foam.
-Now what? I know. I’ll use mom’s foam and the razor. She won’t notice
-Achoo. Surely someone’s talking about me. Or maybe not.
I opened Mom’s shelf and there was all sorts of stuff in there… Сhampoos, shower gels and tons of stuff I don’t know a thing. And there it was. Shaving foam and next to it a razor.
-Exactly what I was looking for. I just hope Mom didn’t use it down there.
-Achoo. I’ll make it a habit if it keeps up. I know I’m popular with men, but not that much.
On the side of the foam it said:
-“Shake vigorously before using it.”
I shook it, I didn’t shake it there until I nearly drop it off.
-That’s all it should take. Let’s see what it says. “Then apply it to the surface you’re going to shave.”
And without reading it I knew. I put the foam into one of my hands and applied to my face. I closed my eyes and prayed that I wouldn’t “cut myself” with the razor. That was all that was left. I opened my eyes and looked in the mirror. I stared at myself for probaly a minute and decided to act. Although hesitant I decided to act. I picked up the razor and swung gently. It wasn’t hard, but my beard soon disappeared and maybe it wasn’t hard. Or Mom’s razor was nice. I use it all over the face then I washed and touched myself. It was as smooth as a newborn baby’s.
-It’s time to take a shower. But before that I had to put Mom’s things back on.
So I did. I replaced the foam and razor with the shampoo and shower gel and got in the shower. There was a blue sponge waiting for me on the shelf.
-Come on!
I turned on the shower and began to bathe. Not many knew, but I was using a special shampoo to keep my hair strong.
I stepped out of the shower with a robe around my waist.
-It was nice. Now it was time to wipe myself off and-
-Don’t forget to brush your teeth.
Mom called from the bedroom.
-I totally forgot.
I went back to brush my teeth. While I was brushing them my towel fell off and I had to put it back on.
-And that’s done.
-Then go to your room to wipe yourself and get dressed.
-I’ll do that, Mom.
I got to my room. I opened the door and walked in for a split second and closed it. How I did it I had no idea, but that’s what happened. I grabbed a towel and started wiping my hair because it was the most time consuming.
Unlike the hair, my body was almost dry. I could feel dampness here and there.. Since I had a big ponytail it took a while to dry, but there you go. I had another hour. The body was an easy job in comparison.
-Let’s see what mom has ironed. For God’s sake, not that….
With those clothes on I would look like one of those crappy actors in the movies Mom watches. Just to mention that only old people watch them. I knew right then that things weren’t going to work out.
-What will be shall be. There’s no going back. Only moving forward.
-Just like that, son.
-Yes…
Sometimes I feel like she does it on purpose just to amuse herself. What mattered now was getting dressed up and pretending I didn’t look like someone from the ’80s. Difficult, but not impossible. I got dressed. Now all I have to do is put on gel and fix my hair.
-Time for the special gel.
Yeah, that’s right. I used a special gel, not something cheap. Unlike the others, it held my hair all day. I put some on my hand and applied to my hair. That was the beginning. Now I quickly had to fix a cool haircut. Hair in spikes. I’m hella sexy, I know it. Did the towering spikes and by here I’m done. Now all that’s left is the ponytail. I also applied hair gel there to keep it from moving and started to gather it. I put on the elastic band and combed it.
-I’m either really cool or maybe not. Even if I look like an idiot at least my hair is in style.
I looked for perfume, but then I remembered that mom promised to get me a manly one.
-Mom, did you find the perfume?
-Yes, dear. I’m coming now. Don’t forget to use your roll-on.
-Oh yes, I almost forgot.
I used the roll-on on my armpits. I doesn’t want to sweat under my armpits and drive the girl away. It’s hard being a cavalier and a gentleman. Am I a combination of both? Or did they mean the same thing? I’ll look it up on the internet sometime. I didn’t have time for that right now.
-Knock-knock.
-Just come in and give me the perfume, Mom.
-Okay.
She walked in and what to see. Men’s perfume from the ’50s. It just blew me away. It was better than a woman’s.
-Thanks, Mom.
-No reason. My first boyfriend wore this. He was 12.
-How come is in your possesion?
-Don’t you know?
-What to know?
-I like wearing men’s perfume.
-Have you been lying to me all this time?
-Come on now, the details don’t matter. Just spray yourself and go. You have 10 minutes and you’ll be late for the bus.
I listened to her. At this point, whatever happens will just happen. At least I learned one truth today. Don’t trust Mom for everything. Maybe my whole life has been just a game to her…
Thoughts like that had to get out of my head. I was ready and sprayed myself thoroughly with perfume like mom wanted. Surely from half a mile away you would smell it.
-Mom, I’m going to leave.
-Wait a minute, I haven’t given you any money yet.
-Yes, it’s true.
-Here. Have fun and have a blast. I know you can do it!
I got the money from Mom. It was a lot. One 100 Euro bill. I was of course like a soldier deep in enemy territory with no connection to headquarters or the commander-in-chief. I was alone. I got to the front door of the house.
-Now to put on my favorite shoes.
-The others, my son.
-Why?
-For good luck.
Will you leave me alone? I didn’t know the answer, but I knew it was a hundred percent certain it wouldn’t be the only time. In many wars those who lead the battles are put in situations where you just have to rely on the
your instincts. This, though it was on a different battlefield was a similar situation. Unlike others who had experience I didn’t have any. If the others were going to make fun of me from the morning there was no point in getting on the bus. Even without it I had the time and it was good to stretch myself and muster my courage.
-Hello, sweetie!
-If only I were younger!
-You’re very stylish!
-Can you give me a ride downtown, young man?
-We’ve got a cool gentleman here, girls!
An unforeseen thing. Often the old women, who also watch Mother’s stupid movies, gather at Aunt Pepa’s. She wasn’t related to me, but I called her Auntie from a young age. When I asked her the name.
-It doesn’t matter, call me Pepa.
I thought it was a nickname, but I had never heard anyone else call her by her real name unless it was really Pepa. There was nothing to think of it. I hadn’t walked half a mile yet, and already I looked like an idiot,
I had positive comments from the old ladies that served as the spark the bullies needed to not leave alone.
-Just like that, old lady killer!
-Clothes like that don’t sell anywhere.
-The poor women, trying not to make fun of the beater.
Sometimes I wish instead of just stealing my mom’s cupcakes to let her boss them around. I bet they wouldn’t last even two days.
-Couldn’t it get any worse?
Let’s not grab the devil by the tail. I’ll just move on, and the taunts from the hooligans increased as I passed through the hooligans’ quarters. At least they weren’t beating me or doing anything else.
-Did they feel sorry for me, too?
Maybe not that. They just knew what was going on and the end result. Now it was just the appetizer. The main dish would have been being the rejection. For dessert it would have been the mocking afterwards.
-I shouldn’t think like that.
Exactly. Today could be the day I go out with a girl and her becoming my girlfriend. Let me be positive and leave the others aside. Ignoring the others I made it to the coffee shop where she worked.
There was still five minutes before 11 AM, but better to be early than late.
-I look at him! The boy has a thing for retro clothing.
-I wish I’d said no. I’m already regret.
-And now you can.
-But I need the money to go to college.
-Well, go out and try to be nice. Also compliment him on his outfit. Anyways, you won’t see anyone else dress like that.
-Do I have to?
-Yeah, and don’t use Halloween for the compliment.
-I hate you, Ivelina.
-I love you, too. Now go. The boy is nervous and waiting for you. Give it your all.
I saw the barmaid talking to someone and winking. She must be talking to a customer to get a tip. It was normal in these parts. In fact, where was Rosa? Suddenly I turned around and I saw her. Yes, she was wearing normal clothes for going out, and I was in some clothes that stood out, and in a bad way. I sighed.
-Hello, Rosa.
I had to take the first step. A little unsure, but what to do? It was because of a certain mother that I was in this position.
-Achoo. Someone’s thinking about me. Come on, guys!
Wink.
-Hello, Deni. I didn’t know that kind of thing thrilled you. You look great.
-Actually, not exactly. Mom made me wear these lost clothes. More like forced, because those are the only ones she ironed.
-You live with your mother?
-Well, yeah. You may tease me, but I don’t even work and there’s no way I can rent a place.
-You still have to try to get your mother to listen to you or iron your own clothes.
-Actually I can’t and once when I tried I nearly set the house on fire. I had to go to the toilet in a dire need and forgot the iron.
-Did you have a fire?
-There would have been if mother hadn’t seen me go into the toilet. Since then she forbid me to touch the iron.
-Sounds funny.
-It wasn’t, really. You, on the other hand, look like a magazine model.
-Stop with the flattery.
-No, I’m not kidding. I may be a complete idiot, but you definitely have the looks of a model.
(Way to go, boy, even if you don’t mean it. Just watch her reaction.)
-You’ve been joking with me for a while. I’m not that pretty.
On some instinct I dodged and it saved me from a hit.
-Slightly, you almost hit me.
-Nobody had been able to avoid it until now.
-What?
-My punch. When I’m embarrassed, I resort a bit to violence.
-And I thought you were perfect. Like a red rose without thorns.
A red beep alerted me and I opened the coffee door to protect myself from whats to come.
(Maybe Rosa will get lucky with that boy. Wait, I’m not much bigger than him. Anyway, good luck to you both.)
-Don’t go exaggerating. You can find a girl like me anywhere.
-That’s not true. Not every pretty girl like you would even look at me, let alone talk to me.
-And I haven’t met a boy who hasn’t run away in fear by now. They were afraid of me.
I wanted to say: “Come on let’s hold hands and let the date begin”, but I couldn’t, I just hold her hand.
-Hey.
I left without thinking trying not to walk fast. I couldn’t deny how beautiful Rosa was. She had blue eyes and blonde hair. She was like a mermaid to sailors. Her clothes also added to her natural beauty. She wore a red leather dress. It perfectly described her curves and especially her breasts. I was happy that she had paid attention to me at all. Instead of hitting me I could see how she had blushed. Maybe even redder than her lipstick.
-I’m not kidding if it looks like that. I’m not like that.
-I trust you already. I just hope you’re not one of the flatterers who’s only after my body.
-Your body?
-You don’t know? They’re just looking to do it with you and then just dump you.
-Mom didn’t mention anything about that.
-You’re obviously not one of them. Come closer.
She moved a little closer our shoulders almost touching.
-Maybe it вилл бе a good date and you’re not a loser.
-But actually И am.
-No, you’re not. If you were, you wouldn’t be on a date with a beautiful girl like me.
Rosa winked at me. It seemed this date was a first for both of us. Step by step we were gaining experience.
-But I’m just lucky. You’re so beautiful and I’m a loser.
-Now stop. You don’t need to talk about yourself like that. Even if you’re a circus clown, at least you can make a woman have confidence in herself.
-But I-
-You’re not like that. It’s just the way you think.
She wrapped her hands around my arm.
-Come with me now. I know a good place not far from here.
I followed her. Did I have a choice? I didn’t know what to do myself. I panicked. It must have been the same with her. She seemed to have more courage than me. We walked through a strange street. There were no people there, and
that’s rare downtown.
-We’ve arrived, Deni.
-This? Isn’t this the place-
-Yeah, the place where they all talk bollocks. Let’s go in.
Rosa opened the door and she walked into a fast food place. It had mostly Japanese stuff as people called it the spoiled noodles or the fake ramen. I personally wasn’t familiar how it all began, but even
I knew about what was being talked about. The stuff was claimed to be so bad that people started to joke about inviting your foes to eat here.
-Well, are you going in or not?
-Ah, sorry.
I was carried away and it seems she was the only one who got in.
-Irasshai.
-Kon’nichiwa, sensei.
-What did you say. That’s the custom here. And remember. Before you eat, say “itadakimasu.”
-I-ta-whatever.
-It’s not like that, You’ll respect the owner of the place before you eat. It’s delicious and cheap here.
I almost snapped and said I’d eaten, but I had no idea what was coming next. Let’s just go with the flow.
-Good. Just say it a bit slower because I didn’t hear what you said.
-No problem. Give me the menu right now, sensei.
-I’ll see you. You’re with a boy. Are you on a date?
-It doesn’t matter. Just give it. Can’t you see I’m trying to get you a new client.
Rosa blushed, but managed to finish what she said without a problem.
-‘All right then, here’s the menu. When you’re ready just call.
-Good. Deni, most things here are in Japanese, but I can tell you what’s good from here, but let’s sit down first. How about by the window?
-Why not, it looks good.
I sat down and regretted saying it. As I sat down I felt the volume of the music increase and what language it was I don’t even know,
-What are you surprised at? Japanese music is being played here.
-Seriously?
-Besides, do you see that door?
-Which one? Oh, I saw it.
-There’s karaoke. Sometimes, besides eating, people come to chill and sing.
-Yeah.
I didn’t know if I was disappointed or just didn’t know what to say, but Rosa was enthusiastic for once. I had to figure out where to go next, but now let me see the menu. I saw almost everything for the first time: ramen, onigiri, takoyaki, shirayaki, yakisoba, sushi, dango. Lots of unfamiliar things.
-How hungry are you?
-Well, I don’t know.
-What do you know then?
-We’re on a date.
-Quiet! I’ll order.
I nodded.
-Sensei, I’d like a ramen split it into two smaller bowls. Put a couple of takoyaki, shiroyaki and dango on a separate plate.
-At once.
-What did you order?
-You’ll find out. Now let’s start talking while the food is prepared and served. I don’t know much about you, but can you tell me anyway?
-Yes, though I’m not proud of it. As you can see, I easily give in to other people’s opinions. In my school life I was bullied all the time.
-I’ve figured that out already,
-I had no time for girls.
-And that too.
-Will you wait for me to finish?
-Oh, sorry. It’s a habit.
-Last year before I graduated, while running from bullies, I caught a glimpse of a girl. She was a 9th grader. It was just curiosity at first, but it ended up being more than that. You don’t have to be an expert to know that I started to like her over time, but only as I was running from the bullies could I see her. The other times something kept going wrong. A week before the ball I gathered courage and decided to ask her to go to the prom, but alas I was cut off. That’s the way it goes for me.
-It’s not as bad as I thought.
-And I’ve been determined to get a girlfriend ever since.
-Yeah.
-The only way I’m gonna do that is by getting up the courage and going out girls until I find the one. The perferct girl. Sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it?
-Oh, it does, but you’ve decided not to leave things to chance. But doesn’t that mean you’ll be going out with lots of girls before that?
-Yeah, I guess it would.
-And you’re pretty sure you won’t take advantage of that.
-Of what?
-Anyway, you don’t seem to be thinking with that thing downstairs. For now.
-Why don’t you tell us about yourself?
-All right. I have blond hair and blue eyes.
-What about that?
-And I’m blond down there.
-Well, what are you talking about?
-I was born blonde with blue eyes.
Rosa shouted.
-You didn’t dye your hair, did you?
-Eureka. So like I said, because I have natural blonde hair everyone thinks I’m a slut.
-What do you mean slut?
-You’ve either lived a sheltered life or you’ve only been taught good manners and so on.
-Only my mom looks at me and doesn’t mention a lot of things.
-Well, in a nutshell, it’s like I’m a woman who has sex for money. Easy woman.
-Mom said to sympathize with women like that, but not to tie myself to their games.
-What’s that got to do with anything?
-Did I say that out loud?
She nodded.
-It all started at the beginning of 7th grade. You may not know, but girls go through puberty earlier. With that, certain body parts grow. It gave a reflection of that that I could notice how boys look at me, or more specifically, at my chest. I didn’t know how to deal with that. There had been mild teasing before, but nothing serious and it was natural not to know what to do. I was trying to avoid boys, and my girl friends started pulling away from me. Later I heard a rumor that they were saying all sorts of nasty things behind my back. Can you imagine that?
Rosa looked at me like she was expecting something, but I didn’t know what either.
-Would you say something?
-Well, I don’t really have any friends and I don’t know what to say.
-Was that so?
-Yeah, it’s hard to have friends when you’re the main target of bullies.
-One of the things totally crashed me.
She looked at me again.
-Don’t you care?
-Well, I don’t know.
-You have to understand that girls are looking for a guy who has self-confidence and not a guy to get his words out.
-But it’s the first time I’ve talked to a girl for so long. I decided to let you finish without interrupting.
-So be it. They said I’ve been showing my chest to boys. Not just from our class, but in general. Truth was, I was wondering how to get rid of those scumbag perverts. They kept trying to touch my private parts. One day they had me cornered and there was no way to get away, but luckily for me some boy was running away from the bullies. My rapists were called out to help and that’s how I got away. I never found out his name, but I have to thank him.
-What elementary school did you go to?
-Oscar Night.
-I went there too.
-Is it possible that was you back then?
-More than possible. I remember one day the bullies were called before the headmistress. One had taken a video of them chasing me and beating me. They chased me because they thought it was my idea.
-I understand. Thank you very much.
It was the second time I saw Rosa smile.
-Why, I didn’t do anything. It’s something normal for me.
-Our school also had a high school and the boys still didn’t leave me but a lot of them went to study elsewhere and the others didn’t feel like doing the same or at least outdoors. I could deal with that, but this
made me stay away from the boys.
-Didn’t you move to study elsewhere?
-Yes, I went to art school. Next year I’ll graduate and start college at the same.
-Do you really like it?
-You won’t know until you try. I don’t really feel like studying so I took advantage of that and got into art.
-Yeah. It wasn’t good either.
-Are you good at anything?
-Good question. Probably not.
-Here. Enjoy.
The owner came and brought what we ordered while we were talking. I’m sure Rosa would have said something about me again.
-Let’s eat while it’s warm!
-Good.
I reached my hand to the bowl of whatever was there. Rosa stopped me, though.
-We’ll pray first before we eat.
-Ah, yes, she said something like that.
-Do you even remember what I told you 5 minutes ago?
-About your breasts?
-Before that.
She said it angry and I started thinking. The light bulb went off.
-I-ta something?
-Yes. Now she repeated after me.
I nodded.
-I-ta-da-ki-masu.
-I-ta-da-ki-masu.
-Is it that hard?
-What about ананас(pineapple)?
-Did you even hear me?
-Or is this about нас(us)?
-IT’S SAID BEFORE THE MEAL!
I think I pissed her off, but I honestly didn’t know what she was talking about,
-We could do without the праз(leek).
-Are you serious?
Rosa sighed and continued.
-Anyway. By the time we’re done talking the food will be cold.
-Do I detect a quarrel between lovers?
-Sensei, do you want me to go at you as well?
-Pretend you didn’t hear what I said.
He seems to have had his fill of her before, or witnessed it and knows when to quit.
-How do you eat that with those sticks?
-They’re called chopsticks. Haven’t you eaten spaghetti?
-I have, but at home we eat them with forks.
-Well, there are no forks here. It’s time you learned to eat with chopsticks.
-But I can’t!
-You learn all your life. Now pull yourself together.
I sighed and resigned myself to the fact that whatever I did wouldn’t help. Fate loves the brave. I’ll expose myself if I have to, but I won’t give in. Onward, Deni!
-Did you just start talking to yourself again?
-No comment.
-Then let’s start eating.
I got the chopsticks.
-Let me show you how to hold them.
After 2-3 minutes, I understood how to eat with chopsticks. It wasn’t as hard as it looked.
-It was easy.
-Did you see? In the end, when there’s only liquid left, you swallow it in one gulp.
-Is that necessary?
-It’s a tradition.
It’s tasty, that бавен(slow thing), or whatever its name was. I reached for the bowl of ядки(nuts). And they weren’t bad. I just couldn’t figure out where the nuts were, but they must have been crushed from a secret recipe and toasted. When I got home I’ll ask Mom.
-Do you want sake?
-Sensei, give us some water. The boy next to me is like a drunkard without drinking. Do you want it to get worse?
-All right then. I’ll get you a glass of water right now.
I ate it all and left it for Rosa of course. She ate slowly unlike me. It wasn’t cultural to talk while we ate so I waited and thought about where to take her in the afternoon. The park near the sea. It wasn’t far from here. We could create good memories there. While I was thinking about that I saw a couple coming out of the karaoke. They seemed to have sung their hearts out and were now going to have a bite to eat. Rosa hadn’t finished yet.
-Where’s the toilet?
-Down the hall.
-Good.
I thought I’d do my job. I was unlikely to find a good place to do it in the park, and I didn’t want to look like someone with no culture. Not to mention I drank the water while waiting for Rosa. Definitely a lot of liquids. I had to get rid of at least some of it. I was about to head out after finishing my job and remembered. Mom said to wash my hands well before I left the bathroom. Even more so if it was in a public place.
I went back in and washed my hands thoroughly. I could come out of the toilet now.
-Are you ready to go outside?
-Are you okay, Rosa?
-Yes.
-Excuse me, how much is the bill?
– 10 Euros.
It wasn’t as much as I expected.
-Come on, I’ll pay
-But I invited you, Rosa.
I gave 10 Euros and some coins to the owner and Rosa and I went out.
-You’re out of a job and you’re showing off like you’re paying and leaving a tip, huh?
-What are you talking about?
-It doesn’t matter. Where are we going?
-What about the park on the beach? It’s thirty minutes from here.
-Okay. I’m gonna feel the strong summer breeze blow me away.
We didn’t say a word to each other until we got there. We were both trying not to look each other in the eye. We must have looked strange through other people’s eyes, and there were a lot of them. Really a lot. Once we got to the park
Rosa pulled out her phone.
-‘Are you going to take a pictures of me?
-Why?
-Just do it.
-Okay.
Rosa kept standing in different poses and places and I took pictures of her. I personally didn’t understand the point, but it was important to her. Time flew by without us noticing, and I had to figure out where to end the date.
-Come on, take my picture, Deni!
I kept taking pictures of her. She seemed to enjoy having her pictures taken. In the distance I spotted a ship. As we got a little closer I saw it was a restaurant.
-Have you been here, Deni?
-No, have you, Rosa?
-And I haven’t. Why don’t we go in?
It was far from ideal, but I could tell that things went well today. Well, how up or down was another matter.
-Good evening, would you like a table for two?
-Yes, if you like.
I answered before I let Rosa do it for me. Everything had its limits.
-Follow me.
We followed the waiter. We walked for a bit and ended up at a table overlooking the sea.
-Do you like this table?
-Yes, thank you very much.
-I’m glad you like it. I’ll give you the menu now.
-Thank you very much.
-Thank you.
We both thanked you.
-What do you think?
-For what?
-Doesn’t it look like an expensive place to you?
-Probably, but there must be something special?
-Do you hear the music?
-What are you talking about, Rosa?
I honestly had no idea what she was talking about. I listened and I think I heard live music. The waiter left the menus.
-When you’re ready to order raise your hand and I’ll be right over. Have a pleasant stay.
We both opened the menu.
-Rosa.
-Yes, Denny?
-Can I order now?
-Why?
-Well, you ordered for lunch, now you leave it to me.
-Okay.
Without looking at the menu, I raised my hand.
-Yes, what would you like?
-I’d like fries and seafood salad.
-Okay. And something to drink?
-I want a Coke.
-Coke.
Rosa and I said together.
-All right, two Cokes. After 10-15 minutes we’ll be ready. Until then, have patience and enjoy the live music.
With that, the waiter left. I really disliked folk music, but the same didn’t seem to apply to Rosa.
-Let’s play, Deni.
-But I don’t-
She literally wouldn’t let me finish.
-Follow me. It’s not that hard.
-What you say.
I stood up and began to follow her, carefully stepping so as not to step on her without meaning to.
-You’re not that bad. It’ll work out.
-What?
-Are you just going to ask questions all day? I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.
I was ready to ask her again, but I wasn’t going to get an answer. Anyway. I was just careful as I danced with her waiting for the waiter to finally come. I prayed it would be soon, but he was at the very least delayed another 10 minutes and I had logically become more or less sour. It wasn’t his fault, but still. It was a good thing I paid attention at all that he had put it on because Rosa had no intention of stopping to dance.
-The waiter served. Let’s eat, Rosa?
-I was starving from all that dancing.
We both made it to our table. I seasoned the salad with olive oil, lemon juice and so on. Then I stirred. Rosa ate faster this tme than she did at lunch. I didn’t know if the girls ate fast or slowly. Maybe it depended on the occasion. While we ate we looked at each other instead of talking. I could feel a feeling I thought I would only experience once. Maybe it would have worked. The music went on without stopping, and we eventually finished eating.
-Deni, I have to tell you something.
In my head, I thought of that phrase. There was this expression in a book about expressions of being rejected. With it, women are trying to prepare a man for the harsh truth.
-Going to the bathroom. Can you say it later?
-Okay.
I raised my hand and the same waiter came over.
-What would you like?
-Where’s the toilet?
-Follow me.
I followed the waiter. Once Rosa was a distance away I gathered my courage and asked the waiter.
-Can I have the bill?
-Of course. One moment.
The waiter went to get it.
-Here.
-30 euros? Whatever. Here’s 30 euros.
-Thank you.
-Now where’s the toilet? Hey, that room in the back. Just be careful that the women’s and men’s toilets are next to each other.
-Thank you very much.
I didn’t want another girl to reject me. That’s why I had to get out. I couldn’t leave the entrance because Rosa would see me, so I’d use the window in the toilet, which was up to ground level. Even if it wasn’t I’d still be fine. As I walked quickly I bumped and fell.
-Excuse me.
-I’m so sorry.
I saw I bumped into someone. A girl. Her clothes were weird. Like those of noble birth.
-Where are you touching me!
Then I noticed that I was holding her breast with one hand.
-Sorry, but just don’t yell!
-Are you touching me there and now trying to get away?
-No, it’s not like that.
-Take responsibility!
-How?
-Get out with me.
-But I don’t have any money.
-It doesn’t matter. In two weeks, here at noon. If you don’t come, I’ll tell Dad about it, and you won’t want to know what happens to you.
I had no choice but to nod and accept my fate. To a complete stranger and not so bad looking girl I accepted to go out.
-Till then.
-Till then.
I walked into the restroom. I had to remember otherwise i would be dead. I went into the bathroom, opened the window and escaped through it. I got home earlier than expected. I didn’t even finish my Coke…
-How did the date go?
-Okay, but in the end things didn’t work out I’m going to bed.
-Poor soul. Nothing. At least you tried.

First Job/ Prologue to next arc!

I don’t remember how I fell asleep or much at all, but it must have been for the best. Yesterday was just a battle, but I will definitely win the war!
-Forward!
With a loud battle cry and a high raised fist, I got out of bed. I looked at the clock. The time was 10 o’clock. Apparently I got a little extra sleep, but that must be due to the events of yesterday.
-It doesn’t matter. I’ll learn my lessons and be even better next time.
-Good morning, son. Who are you talking to?
-No one.
-Breakfast is ready. Come eat.
-All right.
The normal procedure went. I could see black dots around my pupils. I had cried myself while I slept. Best not to think. I washed my eyes once more and went into the living room.
-Well, what are you going to do?
-Well, I don’t know. Something to suggest, Mom?
-Let’s see… You’re a big and responsible man now. You have to have a job to be able to feed yourself and go on dates with girls.
-Well, Mommy you always- –
Mom interrupted me.
-I will always help you, but you have to work and earn money.
-Okay, Mom.
-Did you have any money left from yesterday?
-Yes, 50 euros.
-I’m not going to take it back, but you really need to get a job.
-How?
-Buy a newspaper with that money.
-But people use devices to read newspapers.
-It’s better for you to get a newspaper.
-But these things are out of your time, Mom.
-Now go buy a newspaper. We’ll look at the job ads together.
I sighed and nodded. I just couldn’t help but listen to Mom. Everything was set on the table. Vegetable salad and a few boiled eggs.
-Tasty.
-Well, now that you’re sitting at the table eat your food and when you’re ready and I mean ready and have washed your hands and face go buy a newspaper with job ads.
I didn’t even think about it, but nodded on instinct. Besides, there was airan to drink. Just great. I ate the yummy stuff, but I knew part of me was gone. Just like after I was rejected by Sylvia. How many shards of me were there? That I didn’t know. After I ate I did what mom said. Not that I usually didn’t, but there was a case of forgetting. I headed in and got to the door to get out.
-Okay mom, I’m going out to buy a newspaper with job ads and I’ll be back.
-No need to tell me that. Just go.
-Then what am I waiting for?
I opened the door and walked out. Once I was completely out I felt like something had changed. Like it wasn’t the same. But what was it? I didn’t know, and I probably had no way of knowing. I walked for a while without direction and then I saw two people talking in the distance.
-We need someone cowardly to play him to work for us for free.
-That’s it, Yanni.
-The question is, where will we find such a specimen, Borko?
-I have no idea, man. If we could only find him, we’d trick him.
-Ah, the one with the cardboard box and that we’re going to get the money and come back?
-Yeah, that one?
-It’s my favorite.
I approached them and decided to ask.
-I’m very sorry, but do you know where the newspaper booth was?
-Maybe, but what are you looking for, young man?
-Well, a newspaper with job ads.
-Yeah. Well, there was one, was it not?
-Two blocks from here on the left.
-Thank you very much.
I headed in the direction they pointed.
-This one’s perfect for the job.
-Do you have any doubts about it?
-Hahaha.
-Hahahahahaha.
I could hear the two of them laughing. I moved on and could possibly see the booth. A few more meters and… there I am.
-Excuse me, would I like to buy a newspaper with job ads?
-Which one?
-I don’t know.
-I’m kidding. It’s the only newspaper with job ads. There’s a picture of a beautiful woman in the middle.
-Anyway, how much does it cost?
-1 euro and 50 cents.
-All right, I’ll take it.
I handed over the smallest banknote I had, which was 5 euros.
-Here’s the newspaper and 3 and 50 change.
I headed home, The people who were talking were gone. They seemed to have left. I continued my way home and arrived. I opened the door.
-Mom, I’m home.
-Well, welcome, now let’s go look at the job ads in the living room, but first let me put on my glasses.
Then we both looked, or rather she looked at the ads and judged what was good for me. When she got to the middle she saw the poster of a naked woman I didn’t know about. Or maybe I did know. The seller mentioned something about a woman, but I doubt Mom would understand.
-You naughty boy.
-Mom, it’s not what you think, is it?
-Well, what is it then?
-Well, I didn’t know.
-If you knew it was there, would you have hidden the page?
-I wouldn’t have bought it if I’d known.
-You, you have a very strong libido.
-Mom.
-There’s nothing to hide, it’s normal for a boy your age. Let me tell you whatever you want to know. Show me what interests you on the poster and I’ll explain everything. Don’t be shy.
-Mom, don’t you think we’re straying from what we should be doing?
-Oh, yeah, sorry. We’ll do it another time.
I sighed and left her looking at the ads on the second half of the paper.
-We’re ready. Tomorrow you’ll go to the places marked and ask for jobs.
-But can’t I just call?
-First impressions are important!
-Okay, I’ll go tomorrow.
-Atta boy.
After that was over I saw the time and it was time to watch TV. They were showing a programme about how to make halloumi. Then an action series started about Golgo 13. It was my favorite. It was adapted from the one-name manga and nothing is left out. Dinner time came, and only then did I realize I hadn’t had lunch, but it was dinner time. Mom had cooked chicken and rice in the oven that afternoon. Super with the rest of the airan. Another favorite meal of mine. We ate quietly and peacefully while listening to the news. After I finished I went to wash my dishes and fork. Then I washed my hands, teeth and was ready for bed. Tomorrow was going to be a big day. I fell asleep with that thought.

Same day, Rosa (extra)

What happened I don’t know. Everything was going well and suddenly.
-No, I’m not going to cry again!
Although I was disappointed it’s not like I was expecting anything. Or was I? I’m starting to contradict myself. Did I really think it was going to happen? Tears are pouring out of me. I haven’t been able to hold back since I got home. Is today going to be the same? I couldn’t tell,
but I had to pull myself together.
-One, two. Get up, Rosa!
I got up with a loud yell. Whether he reject didn’t matter. Not anymore. It’s over. Now is the future and I can probably find someone else decent to go out with. The time was 9:10
-Oh, no. I have to hurry or Ivelina would have had me!
Every day she wanted me at work at 9:45. The faster one would give it. Less makeup and perfume. I’ll pick something up on the way. With that idea, I stripped, grabbed a towel and took a shower. Then I brushed my teeth. When I got back to my room I saw my used underwear,
which was black. I was prepared. Anyway, I hastily wiped my body and hair. I didn’t have time for my hair and used the hair dryer. I hurriedly put on my regular underwear. Only ironed I had a short blouse and short jeans but before that I put on tights. I didn’t have much time left. I hastily stood in front of the mirror and put on some makeup. I perfumed myself. I fixed my hair with a comb, tied it up with a ribbon and with a bang I headed out of the house and went to work.
-Oops, almost forgot my bag.
I went back to my room to get it.
-Everything should be fine now.
Everything was perfect this time. I laced up my shoes, opened the door and locked up after me. Mom would be fine later. Now to hurry and catch the bus unless I wanted to walk. I wish they’d do something about it with the strange smell on the buses, but it was too much to expect. I don’t know if the drivers had the time or the inclination, but at least they could have put an air freshener inside. On the other hand, people shouldn’t come in and smell like pig out of the pen or make garbage and so on. Maybe it was both sides’ fault.
-What am I doing? I almost sound like Deni!
I stopped thinking about it and found myself at the bus stop. I just hoped I hadn’t missed it, but I saw my neighbors sitting down and they were waiting.
-Hello, Louise.
-Greetings, little girl.
-I’m big now!
-You’re all the same to me.
-And you keep talking to me like you’re my mother. Hello to you too, Ralitsa.
-Hello. I see your day is starting in an exciting way.
-I wouldn’t call it exciting.
-Ah, here comes the bus.
-Stop avoiding the subject…
Then the bus came and we got on. All three of us had annual bus passes. We sat in the back seats because there were peasants in the front who hadn’t looked in the mirror in years, to say the least. They even smelled bad. I guess no matter where you are, there will always be those. You just can’t have it anywhere else, plus you don’t know what they can do to you.
-Let’s sit here.
-Good idea, Louise.
-Right, Ralitsa?
-Then let’s sit here.
I was still thinking, and it was already decided where we would sit. I sat with them in the middle of the bus.
-What are you girls going to do today?
-Don’t call me that, you’re only a few years older than me, Louise.
-Well, okay. Excuse me.
-Did you start it again?
Silence.
-I’m gonna go get some clothes for my little boy downtown, what about you?
-I don’t know either, Ralitsa, but I’ll probably shop at the mall. We’ll probably go together.
-Still ignore me, Louise and Ralitza.
-That’s what I’ve been calling energetic girl since this morning. Let me guess, you’re going to work again.
-Yes. But that’s not the point.
-Question?
-What’s she talking about, Louise?
-You two have been harassing me!
-Next stop center. Please prepare to disembark.
-Come on, let’s get ready.
-Good idea.
-I’ll get it back to you one day, just watch!
-She’s better now.
-Definitely, Louise. She’s so easy to read.
The bus stopped at the bus stop and we got off.
-Come on, bye.
-Bye-bye.
Bye-bye, Luisa and Ralitsa.
So I said goodbye to the neighbors. I looked at the time on my phone and I had 5 minutes or I was going to get it. Realistically even if I wasn’t in a hurry I’d still be there on time but the first day I didn’t know about what time to be and Ivelina set me up nicely. By the time I got to work I was looking around for Deni. I felt like I had hope that he would show up out of nowhere. I had, but he wasn’t there. So time that usually passes slowly was now like a blink of an eye. Where was Denis?
-Come on, Rosa!
I slapped my cheeks lightly and walked into the cafeteria.
-Hello, Ivelina!
-Hey, Rosa. How was the date?
-Well…
-Let me guess… In the end you left on your own.
-How do you know?
-Let’s just say I was watching you the whole time.
-Why, you!
-I couldn’t let you go. He could have raped you or hit you.
-Or you just wanted to make fun of me the next day!
-It’s not like that. I was seriously worried about you. Let me tell you what happened yesterday.
-Only, well, only if you make fun of me do I quit immediately.
-All right, just get dressed for work and I’ll explain.
I nodded.
-From what I saw your date went normally. It was far from ideal, but you both had no experience. Maybe a good meeting worked out.
-So what, you know, the end result-
Ivelina interrupted me.
-I’ll get there. Everything was going perfectly until you said, “Deni, I have to tell you something.”
-What about it?
-Whatever you want to call it, but there’s a book on ways to reject someone and not hurt them at the same time. There are many expressions and this is one of them.
-Seriously? Is he that stupid to believe that crap?
-Actually, the book mentions that there’s a high chance of it being rejection and very little chance of it not being, but apparently he took it to heart and thought you wanted to not hang out with him, just saying.
-You keep up the surprises, Ivelina.. So because of a misunderstanding he ran away?
-Exactly. I even think that the girl who rejected him was actually busy on the given day, but promised him to be her gentleman at her ball.
-And how did you find all this out?
-I’m good at reading people.
I sighed loudly.
-Now what to do?
-Leave him.
-Why?
-Let’s say I know the girl he’s talking about. She’s in a different category. If you attract the abnormal, she attracts all life like a magnet. Shall I go on?
-No, don’t.
-Let’s make the best of this.
-What kind of benefits?
-First time you go out and with a normal guy. Now you can do it safely and maybe it’ll be easier to judge the guys instead of calling them abnormal. Up until 3 days ago, you wouldn’t have even considered it.
-You’re right. I’ve changed, even a little. What happened to Deni?
-Are you crazy to go after him?
-No, what happened to him.
-You’re not gonna believe this.
-Say it.
-When he was running away from you, he bumped into a nobleman’s daughter and touched her in the wrong place. In order to get himself clear of it, Deni agreed to go out on a date with her. Whether he’ll remember it or not is another matter, but the trouble follow him as honey attracts flies. I couldn’t hear exact details because of the music in the restaurant.
-Good morning.
-Come on, Rosa, the first customer is here.
-Welcome. What would you like?
-For some reason even I knew I was smiling a natural smile. Maybe there’s hope of getting a boyfriend someday,
-I’d like a hot coffee with cream and 2 packets of sugar.
-Got it. For here or for the way?
-For the way.
But I’ll never give up, and I’m SURE I’ll have a boyfriend one day. Maybe even two!

Afterwords.

I want to thank the people who are reading now or will be reading in the future. Well, how do you see the story setting? Boring? Interesting? Something more in the middle? Did you find any errors or inconsistencies? Write in the comments what you think. As a freelance writer, it’s hard to find the perfect formula on how to write and format everything so it can be pleasing to the eye and yet easy to read and understand. No matter how good my English is. It is not my mother tongue and there will always be mistakes. When I have time I will draw and upload a sketch of Rosa. The color version will be added later and will only be for those who donate. If get many readers I got a promised manga adaptation, but even if doesn’t happen I’ll still be happy as long as there are people anywhere in the world to read and most importantly find it interesting because I’ve been called the fool in the family all my life. Please if you enjoy support this work of fiction! See you in next arc which will be continue from Rosa arc(not from extra part) starting from tommorow!