Twisted Roots (DeBeers 3)

"It's not an act. Maybe you are so used to phony girls that you can't recognize sincerity when you see it. I feel sorry for you," I said and started out.

"Hey, wait."

"What?"

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you. I was just..."

"Just what. Heyden? Amusing yourself with me, seeing how far I would as or how far you could take me before I would act disgusted?"

I stepped toward him.

"I'm sorry your sister is a big brat and your mother won't face up to her responsibilities and your father is away from it all too much. but I think hating the world is only going to hurt you in the end.

"And that," I added. "is from the psychologist's daughter."

I pivoted like a military guard and strutted out, my heart thumping so hard, it felt like it was pounding a hole through my back. He came after me and stopped me on the front steps.

"Wait. Holy psychosis. You have a worse temper than I do," he said.

"So?"

"So, I meant what I said. I'm sorry if I insulted you in any way, shape, or farm. I didn't mean it. I apologize!" he cried, his arms lifted.

I relaxed.

"It's all right. I'm not leaving because of what you said. I've got to be going anyway. My mother and my stepfather are probably on the phone with the FBI by now."

He laughed. "Well, when can I see you again?" "I'm in school tomorrow."

"You know what I mean." he said.

"No, I don't. Say what you mean," I ordered.

"Okay. How about coming with me to check out the guitar after school tomorrow and then, since it's Friday night, we'll go have something to eat in a slow food restaurant and maybe see a movie or something?"

"So you're asking me on a real date?"

"Yes," he said. laughing. "A real date. only I can only take you on my moped. No car."

"Don't worry about the car. Okay?" I said and continued to walk to my car.

"Okay?"

"Yes, okay. We'll discuss the details tomorrow," I added and opened the car door. He hurried to my side.

"Don't you have to check it out with your parents or something?"

"They are very busy at the moment. Stop worrying about it, and thanks for the fast-food dinner."

I got into the car. He stood there holding the door open and looking in at me.

"What?" I said.

"You're about the prettiest girl in that school. You know that?"

"No."

"Well, you are. I'm just surprised you're not with one of the rich Palm Beach boys that hover like arrogant roosters over the hens."