Richard rode up to the schoolhouse just as the children were getting out of school. Even though he and Kathleen had been getting closer and closer, he was still nervous about asking her to the party. When she appeared in the doorway and smiled at him, he knew her answer would be yes. He let the children leave before he went up to her.

"Kathleen, I was wondering if you would allow me to escort you to the Halloween Party?"

"I would be honored." Kathleen said with a smile.