We were standing outside of the auditorium, the cool night air softly rustling the trees. The breeze felt good on my hot cheeks. I was feeling good; the evening had been a success. I sighed contentedly.

"Now, Jack, where do you live?" I froze. Jack opened and closed his mouth a few times but no sound came out. "I-I-I couldn't..." Jack stammered. "No, I insist we drive you home." "Oh, really, it's not nescessary. You've already been so nice and all, taking me out to dinner and to the theater, I couldn't." Jack said nervously. My father opened his mouth to say something but Johnny got in his face and started talking. I felt sick. Everything had been going so well... I stood there, feeling numb, watching people exit the theater.

"Really, it's no trouble. We'll take you home." my father's voice had an underlying finality to it and I knew that there wasn't going to be anymore arguing. Silently, Johnny, Jack and I climbed into the carriage. We sat there sullenly, feeling defeated. Quietly, Jack gave directions to the Lodging House. I looked up at my father's face, trying to gauge his reaction but his face revealed nothing.

The carriage lurched to a halt. We had reached the Lodging House. I couldn't believe this. It was so unreal. Our driver, Joe opened the door for Jack. I couldn't believe this was happening. Dumbfounded, I watched Jack thank my father and shake his hand. He turned and looked at my forlornly and turned to exit the carriage.