Sandy's date's name was Jessie. the only worse name a boy could have would be Jeff, with a G. that was my date's name. it immediately put me off.

to be honest, he wasn't bad looking. he had sharp features and was wearing nice clothes. best of all, he had on kickass shoes. with the exception of his name, which i really couldn't blame him for, i was impressed.

when i'd finished my drink, he asked me if i wanted another one. i could see the hope hovering above Sandy's head. "sure. thanks."

he got up and went to the bar.

Sandy said she'd like a drink too. it took Jessie a second to realize that she meant that she'd felt like he should get her a drink. he got up and went the way of the Geoff.

Sandy wanted my impressions.

"he seems nice," i said.

"told you." she was very proud of herself. "now shush up. here they come."

the boys returned with the drinks and we sort of naturally split into couples, conversation-wise.

i asked Geoff all the typical first date questions. what did he do? where did he live? did he get along with his mother? did he have any siblings?

his answers were all well and fine but none of them really excited me. he asked the same questions back and i realized that i must have sounded as dreadfully boring as he did. then, he surprised me.

"would you like to go for a walk?"

"what, now?"

"sure."

he handed me his drink and told me to take mine as well. he asked Jessie if he could cover the drinks and Jessie nodded. then he turned back to me and said, "just walk out. don't stop. i'll be there in a second." i carried the glasses towards the front door. he was a few steps behind me. as i was passing Alison, and she was starting to notice me, Geoff tripped on one of the chairs and fell flat on his face.

as per his instructions, i kept walking.

he yelled "jesus h. christ!" as he hit the ground and Alison hurried to his aid.

as the door closed behind me i could hear him saying he was okay and that they should make sure the chairs are tucked in better. as stupid as it sounded, Alison apologized and agreed.

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