The Malt Shop

Sun shining, kids smiling this was going to be a summer to remember. Ramona just finished her 8th grade year and about to turn 14. This summer she had no cares, other than the swim team that met each morning at 8 am to practice for an hour. Being of such a young age she didn't have to work, occasionally she'd babysit for the neighbors. She felt care free and ready to face the joys of summer vacation.

Her best friend Linda lived several doors down the street. Basset Street, lined with old shade trees and white picket fences, was a quiet one other than the occasional neighborhood kids riding their bikes or playing ball in the street.

Ramona left her house one morning a little tired and hot after a hard work out. She called to her mother as she shut the door "Bye Mom, I'm off to Linda's we will be back after awhile."
Her mom began to reply but Ramona couldn't hear her through the thick wooden door. She ran down the few porch steps, not noticing the beautifully blooming flowers that lined the walk way. However her eye caught a stick on the side walk which she quickly picked up. With stick in hand she skipped, well that is too juvenile for a 14 year old, so she strolled down the street, pegging the fence post with the stick.

As quickly as her feet stopped, her heart skipped a beat, for she saw Steven Johnson all decked out in his white uniform stepping into his convertible Ford Mustang. Oh he is so hot she thought to herself. She had a hard time not staring at the sixteen year old with gorgeous soft hazel eyes, and perfectly trimmed brown hair. Out of the corner of Steven's eye he saw little Ramona and gave her a great smile and a wave. Her cheeks quickly flushed as she waved hi and added a little speed to her stroll.

Tail lights were far down the street as she knocked on Linda's door. Though she was standing on the porch her mind was far off in Puppy Love Land. The door opened and Linda asked "Are you ok, your cheeks are all red?" Ramona still day dreaming of her encounter... .

'would you like a ride? I'm headed over to the Malt Shop for work.' Steven offered.
"Oh I'd love to. Thank you so much."she replied, not realizing the words actually came out of her mouth.

"What did you say? You'd love to what?" asked Linda bewildered at her friends response.

"Oh...oh sorry. I was just thinking, we should go down town to the Malt Shop and get a shake or something."

"Great, I'll just tell my mom."