The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 2: Lunch Date

If you've ever watched any romantic anime you're bound to see one more scene where the main couple share a huge homemade lunch box at school. Normally it's somewhere private, away from the busy hustle and bustle of the main school. Normally they share their lunch either on the roof of the school or in a deserted classroom. Another popular scene is the two will often share an umbrella on rainy days. Often while holding hands. Sharing an umbrella is another one of those classic anime tropes.

I often think my life is just that, an anime, a slice of life anime with elements of the supernatural thrown in to be more precise. I'll give you an example: I'm a witch, I come from a long line of witches, my mother is a witch, my grandmother was a witch, her mother was a witch. My dad is a warlock too. I also live in the countryside, the area that surrounds my house is mostly used to grow rice, yes rice is grown here in the hill country of Mississippi along with other such stables as cotton, soybeans, corn, winter wheat, and ryegrass.

I also have a crush or a possible future boyfriend who is gender fluid and our relationship is often the subject of the school's gossip mill. I sometimes wish people would just leave us alone, but nine times out of ten most people are cheering for us to get together and become an official “Couple” by having Daisy ask me to attend one of the many formal dances held throughout the year.

But to be honest, I'm not sure either of us were ready for that. Anyway it was lunch time at Benton Academy, the hallways were filled with students rushing toward the cafeteria. Now the food at Benton academy leaves much to be desired, its bland, tasteless, often cold and sometimes even raw. Chief Jordon Ramasy would have a field day whipping our cooks into shape. I would even pay money to see that. I could see it now, Benton Academy being featured on the newest PBS Show “ Cafeteria Nightmares”.

I had peeked at the menu for lunch during breakfast and knew today would be meatloaf, mashed potatoes, collard greens, a side salad with your choice of dress, and finally your choice of either a cornbread muffin or a roll, beverages included either milk or water. But if you had two dollars to your name you could buy a coke-cola from one of the vending machines outside.

That sounds pretty nice right? Wrong, let me tell you this, the meatloaf would be cold, greasy and floating in a horrible brownish water they will try to pass off as gravy. The meat would act like a sponge and soak up this horrible mixture, so you'll be tasting it in every bite. The mashed potatoes would taste like rubber. Good luck trying to swallow that stuff. It would be like trying to swallow a rubber ball, and would taste like one too. And when it comes out, may God have mercy on your soul. You'll break your tooth on the cornbread muffin and you can shatter a window pane with the roll. The water would taste like it was strained through a dirty gym sock, and the milk would be warm and watery.

In short you would be better off chewing on the grass that grows out by the field house than trying to eat that stuff. You come to Benton Academy to learn the classics, to study such high minded subjects such as Latin Western Civilization, The Bible, The sciences, and The Classics. You do not come to get feed.

Anyway to get around this, and to save some money on lunch fees, I decided to start bringing a lunch to school each day. And well when Daisy and I became an item we decided to start having lunch together. In classic anime fashion we decided to have our private lunch time in the new nurses office. Our new school nurse was a young woman named Dawn Sharbrough who had replaced the aging Nurse Miller.

Nurse Sharbrough was a young nurse who had just finished her nursing degree no more than a year or so ago. It was funny, Nurse Sharbrough had graduated from Manchester Academy, the biggest rival Benton Academy ever had. Funny in my sick sense of humor. She was also like me, and often took her own lunch in the nurse's office too and would often watch over Daisy and I as we ate. In a way I'm glad she was there. I mean I trusted Daisy not to try anything with me, and he never really flirted with me, it was I who would often flirt and tease him.

Anyway having a member of staff there was helpful, just in case the other members of staff wanted to raise a fuss. And Nurse Sharbrough was well, you see she was often too busy working on her manuscript to pay much attention to what Daisy and I were doing. I think she dreamed of becoming a published light novelist and was working on an Isekai called “Chronicles of Sea Breeze”.

According to Dawn, she was making good headway and expected to finish the first volume soon. She hoped to self publish it and see some copies at a local anime convention. She was also tinkering with a sequel or a side story. That's pretty cool I guess.

Anyway, returning to the story, it was lunch time and I was now walking up the stairs that connected the lower part of the school with the upper part. You see the nurse's office is located on the second floor, kind of between the first and third floor of the school. It used to be located on the bottom floor, but last summer, the summer of my Freshman year, they decided to remodel a few of the unused classrooms on the second floor and make them into a proper nurses office, instead of having the nurses office being located in an old, mostly discharged broom closet.

Anyway I soon reached the door that would lead me into the nurse's office. You could tell this was the door because unlike the other doors of the school that were painted a dull gray color, this one was pure white with a red cross in the middle. I still debate the wisdom of having a sick student climb a flight of stairs to get to a nurses office, but whatever. Anyway I knocked upon the door and from the other side I heard Dawn Calling out.

“Just a moment please!” She called out a moment later as she was opening the door. And for a good long moment she peered out at me. Her brown eyes seemed confused and she seemed space. At last she noticed the brown bag I was holding in my hands.

“Oh!” She said, smiling a little. “Lunch time!” She said holding the door open for me. “Daisy is getting everything set up for you.” She said moving to the side. “And don't mind me, I'm working on the ninth chapter of Sea Breeze.” She added.

“Cool!” I said as I moved, the moment I moved in the room was the moment I was hit with the smell of Lysol Disinfectant spray and Clorox Bleach. Pretty much how I expected a nurses office to smell. A few more steps and I was nearing the little table that Dawn had set up for us. And then I laid eyes on Daisy and I could feel my cheeks starting to turn a beat red.

“Hey.” He said blushing as he looked up from the book he was reading. I think it was one of the 'Wheel of Time' books. I knew Daisy was a huge fan of Robert Jordan. He folded the book down and pushed a small red and white can of coke cola across the table.

“Cool.” I said, smirking a little, I loved seeing him blush. “I brought your lunch, so you don't starve today or pass out from hunger during P.E.” I said smiling as I held up the brown paper bag. “Today you're having a skillet hamburger, on a toasted all wheat bun, what a side of golden flake cheese puffs.” I said smirking again as I reached into the brown sack and pulled out a foil wrapped hamburger. I tossed it to him and he caught it.

“Thanks.” He said.

“You know, you two need to hurry up and make it official, because you're both just too cute together.” Dawn chimed in as she smiled toward Daisy and I.

At that very moment I felt like Dawn had just picked a heavy iron frying pan and had slapped me right across the face with it. I was shocked, speechless, my mind was totally blank. I peered at Dawn, who just giggled as she peered toward me. It seemed as though she could read my thoughts through my face and that caused her to giggle more, almost like a mad woman. Daisy though seemed lost as always, lost for words or more focused on the foil wrapped hamburger in front of him.

“Not this again!” I said rolling my eyes as I started to unwrap my own hamburger. Once the hamburger was unwrapped I took a big bite out of it and sighed. It tasted pretty good I guess, but it was nothing compared the hamburgers mom makes at home. I guess that was common though for a daughter to compare her cooking and talents with her mother's. After all is not the mother who is the measure stick that she uses to measure her own success? Don't son's use their fathers as measuring sticks too, to measure their own success?

“What?” Dawn said, taking a deep breath as she looked up from her own lunch. “You guys have been talking for like the whole summer. Sure you guys might have had a little summer fling and stuff.” Dawn added. “But I want you to know that other girls are taking a closer, and harder look at Daisy, he's one of the few boys in school that manage to maintain a high grade point average and hold down a steady job at Sunflower as a courtesy clerk.” Dawn paused. “Comes from a good family, and is also the nephew of the town's Episcopal Priest.. or niece depending on the day.”

Daisy seemed hyper focused on his food to notice that Dawn and I were talking about him, and the way Dawn was going on it sounded like she was trying to sell me a used car or something. God I swear that boy could be so clueless at times, I swear he would walk out in front of a speeding truck and end up getting Isekai'd into another world as well as a flat pancake on the blacktop.

“I'm just saying.” Dawns said. “That something should really happen soon. You two guys are just so perfect for each other. Okay one for one.” She said holding up one finger. “You guys both love anime, manga, and light novels. So that gives you something to bond over.” She held up another finger. “Two, you guys both want to attend an anime convention this autumn and maybe cosplay as your favorite character. I'm a cosplayer. And trust me its fun, it's even funnier if you do it with your boyfriend.”

“Ms. Sharbrough!” I exclaimed. “That's going too far! Daisy and I are just friends!” I paused. “I do like him though and I like spending time with him,” I added as I looked away.

“Honey, did anyone ever tell you that you have to be friends first before you become girlfriend and boyfriend.” Dawn said with a smile.

“True!” I said. “But I have so many questions to deal with first, like how would his older sister deal with it. I mean I've met his two older sisters before! But from what I can tell one is a bit odd and the other is a pure fire breather.” I added.

“And his mom!” I never met his mother before, or his father, I mean, I at least want to meet them before coming out to the world as Daisy's boyfriend. And another thing too, he's gender fluid, one day it's male pronouns and the other female pronouns.” I felt my voice starting to drag a little. The more I thought about it the more confused I became.

First things first, the pronoun thing is something you need to work out between you two.” Dawn said with a sigh. “There is no easy answer to that question, but it's a question only answered in time.” She paused again. “Second, as a distant cousin to the Bell family. My family farms cotton and owns a towing company out of Yazoo City. Our two families are kind of connected if you will. Anyway, Aunt Isabella will love you girl, and Susan and Linda would just adopt you as a new little sister. The family might have money, but their far from being toffee nose.” Dawn Added.

“Wow. So you're kin to the Bell Family?”

“And the Ford Family, and the Brewer families.” Dawn said with a sign. “It's a tangled web, don't ask me to untangle it for you. Because then we'll be here well into the night.”

“Uh, Pardon me?” Daisy said, “But Cerridwen your cooking has really gotten a lot better since we started sharing our lunches together.” He quickly added.

I wheeled around and noticed that in front of Daisy there was a crumpled up ball of tin foil, an empty blue, gold, and white bag of golden flake chips and an empty soda can.

“But I do have a question for you Cerridwen.” Daisy stood up and walked around the table. “Something I've been meaning to ask you for a very long time. Something that has taken me a while to work up the courage to ask you.” And with that he got down on one knee and took his hand into mine.

Dawn blinked and I blinked.

“HEY YOU'RE BOTH STILL IN HIGHSCHOOL. MARRIAGE CAN WAIT TILL YOUR BOTH AT LEAST EIGHTEEN!” Dawn yelled as she stood up, causing Daisy and I to look at her, her loud, booming voice filled the room and echoed down the hallway, down the stairs and through the aged brick walls. I'm sure every ghost in the schoolhouse stopped what they were doing, and shifted their heads toward the nurses office. I'm sure they were wondering what in the world was transpiring up stairs at this very moment.

“I..” Daisy seemed like he was beyond shock. His face turned beat red and his tongue twisted in his mouth. “I was going to ask her out to the movies this Saturday.” He said looking like Dawn hat reached over and picked up a heavy iron skillet and had just slapped him dead across the face with it. I was still shocked too.

“Oh..” Dawn said, blinking as she sat back down.

“Nurse Dawn.” I said smiling. “I think you've been reading one too many of those cheesy light novels again...” I said forcing a giggle, my face too was beat red. I then looked down at Daisy and smiled, the boy looked so scared, like he was standing on egg shells as he waited for me to say yes or no.

“Yes.” I said. “I would love to go out with you this Saturday.” I said finally. It seemed summer puppy love was starting to blossom into real love.. mature love I think. The kind of relationship that Jamie enjoyed with Ben or Madeline enjoyed with Matthew or maybe even the kind of hot and spicy relationship Taylor enjoyed with Caspar.

“Hey, at least this is a step in the right direction at least.” Dawn said. “Also hurry up and eat Cerridwen, lunch is almost over!”

And that was the end of that. I felt another foot of road had been laid in the long, winding road of courtship. A road that I hoped would lead me to the high altar of St. Andrew's church one day. And from there, only the Gods and Goddesses knew. But one thing was for certain. I still had a long, rocky road to travel.

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 3: Movie Date

Plaza Twin Cinema located at the end of Main Street is the last of a dying breed, it's one of the few remaining mom and pop owned cinema's. Locally owned and locally operated. It has served Benton faithfully since it opened in the late sixties some sixty something years ago. Anyway if you wanted to see a movie in town this was the place to go.

It was your average Saturday night in Benton. The lobby of the cinema was crowded with rowdy teenagers all eager to spend their weekly allowance on overpriced popcorn, boxes of candy, and cheap hot dogs. The air outside was hot and humid and the air inside thankfully air conditioned.

And there I was standing beside the boy whom I would have loved to call my boyfriend, but right now I felt I could only call him a friend. Yes, a friend who happened to be a boy. I mean if I'm honest, I was not ready to call him my boyfriend, not in my heart anyway. And so, I saw us seeing this movie not as a date or anything, but just two friends going out to see a movie about cloned dinosaurs breaking out of a zoo and eating everything in their path.

Yes, anyway this was just two friends going out to see a movie. Despite the fact I had decided to dress up, meaning I had decided to wear a cute dress I had found on clearance at Hot Topic about a week ago. The dress was a black velvet dress white collared dress that reached down to my thighs. It kind of reminded me of the dress that Wednesday Addams wears. Running with the Wednesday Addams theme I decided to wear my long raven colored hair in two braided pigtails with minimum makeup. White stocking and black leather pumps with a two inch heel completed the look.

What ruined the look however was me clinging to Daisy's arm. Daisy, was dressed in dust colored chinos, a white button down shirt, a black leather bomber jacket and pair of brown dress shoes. His long brown hair was pulled back in a nice, neat ponytail. He looked handsome okay.. and he smelled good. God I wanted to kiss him so bad.

“Hey Cerridwen.” He said with a smile as we neared the counter. “Get anything you want. This is my treat.” He said smiling. Now while it was common on a date for a guy to buy everything. I was not fond of the idea of Daisy spending all his hard earned money on me.

“Only if you let me buy yours.” I said, smiling sweetly.

Daisy blinked and turned around and looked at me.

“I'll let you buy mine, and in return I'll buy yours, and no getting just a small. If I get an extra large popcorn, extra large soda, plus a hot dog. I want you to get an extra large popcorn, extra large soda, and a hot dog too. Or nacho's if you want.” I said in a firm, commanding tone of voice as we stepped up the counter.
.

“Okay..” He said, blinking as he stepped up to the counter. I followed suit.

There were two girls working the counter, one I'm going to assume was somebody they hired to help out for the weekend, Plaza Twin Cinema was famous for hiring kids from around Benton to help out when the weekend rush came. The owner George Honor was a well known tightwad and could be something of a bastard. The only upside that came from working with him was the fact that he paid you from the cash register and he'll pay you minimum wage.

Anyway one of the girls working the snack counter seemed more concerned with painting her nails, all twenty of them than scooping popcorn into plastic buckets or filling paper cups with brown sugar water. Or wrapping cheap hot dogs in foil. And the other one seemed to be swamped. Finally though the girl finished painting her nails and peered toward Daisy and I.

“Can I help ya'll.” She said, peering toward us.

Daisy nudged me up to the counter. I turned around and gave him a look, he only smiled and then cleared my throat I started to say.

“Yes, I would like extra large popcorn, with extra butter please. A extra large coke-cola please ma'am, and a hot dog with just meat and bun.” I said.

“This is just for you and y'all boyfriend or are you two going to order something else?” She said, rolling her eyes. “Cause Its fifty cents extra for straws and a dollar more for refills.” She added. As she started to scoop the popcorn up into a large plastic tub. Soon she was placing the tub on the counter. My drink soon followed along with the hot dog.

“Just for me, he's buying mine and I'm buying his.” I said, smiling sweetly as Daisy reached into her pocket and pulled out wallet.

“Fine.” The girl said punching the order. “Y'all know we only take cash, our card reader machine is down and Mr. Honor don't want to put out the money to get them fixed caused the company that does the machine is an yankee company right?” The girl informed us as finished punching in the order. Now there are two kinds of southern accents, there is the nice refined one, the one Daisy uses and then there is the one that makes you sound like you've come from the sticks. The girl was using the later. And it made my skin crawl.

“Right.” Daisy said

“Anyway y'all total comes to.. twenty dollars..” The girl said as she peered toward Daisy. “You must be that new kid that moved from Vicksburg to Benton cause he got expelled from some super private school cause he got into one to many fights. Some talk is going around school about a prince and all.” She said as she watched Daisy unfold his wallet he then pulled out a folded twenty dollar bill and handed it to the girl.

“I have no idea what you're talking about.” Daisy said with a shrug.

“Right.” The girl said. “So anything else for you two, cause there is a line. And the movie is about to start in like ten, maybe fifteen minutes.” She said as she blew out a stream of hot air.

“I'll take the same thing.” Daisy said, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. I beamed. It seemed Daisy was good at following instructions. I like it when a boy follows my instructions.
“Sure, buy it all out of popcorn and soda while you're at it. Cause you know other people might want popcorn and soda?” The girl said, rolling her eyes. “Oh and you might as well empty the butter machine too.”

The girl said as she filled Daisy's order.

“Hey! Why don't you change your attitude?” I said as I pulled my purse over to my side. I quickly reached in and fished out my wallet, a moment later I was pulling out a folded twenty dollar bill.

“You know.” The girl said smirking as she placed Daisy's order on the counter. “Halloween is next month right?” She said as she peered toward me. “Anyway, enjoy the movie.” She paused, “And that would like twenty dollars too.”

I quickly paid the girl and motioned for Daisy to collect his food, food in hand we both walked toward the darkened theater. Now let me tell you a little more about Plaza Twin Cinema first off they can only play two movies at a time. Our movie was on the left side by the railroad tracks. Second, the floor is sticky, like you can sometimes feel your feet getting stuck to the concrete floor. The air inside was stale and stuffy and always smelled like body sweat, stale popcorn, and farts.

The seat were old, broken, some even had stuffing coming out. Fifty years worth of chewed up gum was stuck under them. This somehow added to the charm of the place. Oh and the bathrooms always smelled of bleach, piss, and puke. But it was the only cinema in town and neither Daisy or I could drive. So going to the nicer one in Yazoo City was totally out of the question.

Anyway, once we found some empty seats the movie started. So Daisy and I had very little time to chat or you know kiss maybe, instead we ate our popcorn, drank our soda, and munched on our hot dogs. Though halfway through the movie I found my hand going into his hand. And soon we were holding hands. Now something strange happened, the moment his hand touched mine was a moment the tiny hairs on the back of my neck stood straight up and my heart started to race with the speed of a late freight train trying to make up time again.

I'm not sure how long we held hands. But the movie was three hours long and we started holding hands thirty minutes into the movie. So a good two and a half hours. Now I know holding hands is nothing major, but it's a small step, but for me, but to me, it was a major step. Anyway the movie played on and at the end Daisy turned to me and smiled.

And so we enjoyed the movie and enjoyed each other. Once the movie was over and the crowd started to empty, Daisy and I, still holding hands, started to move with the human wave. It was pushing nine when Daisy and I finally stepped out into the crowded parking lot. It must have rained while we were watching the movie because the pot holes in the parking lot were filled with rain water.

“That was fun.” I said smiling. “I've never seen a movie with another boy before. It was almost like a real date.” I said joking a little.

“Hey Cerridwen, how are you getting home?” Daisy asked as he peered over at me.

“Mom and dad are away on business.” I said. “So I'm staying with the Potters. Mom used to work with the Potters when she was a teenager, and babysat Lily and Jamie when they were little for extra spending money.”
“Cool!” Daisy said, pausing. “The Potters live on Town Creek, I'm staying with Taylor and her two moms, they live on Croft Street. The two are a stone's throw from each other.” He said peering up at the starry heavens.

I blinked, I was kind of confused and I was unsure what Daisy was driving at. Boys could be so confusing at times, it was really hard to read them. That coming from somebody who use to be a boy. Then again I think it I'd had remained a boy I would have remained asexual, you know not choosing to be attached to either boys or girls. But that was the old me, not the new me.

“Because I was hoping to walk you home.” Daisy said at last as he peered toward me.

I blinked and blinked again. I felt my mouth starting to go dry.

“Sure!” I said blushing. And with that we started to walk off into the night.

As we walked, Daisy and I once more found ourselves holding hands, but we said nothing to each other, we just walked, side by side, keeping in step with each other. Our eyes said it all though. And soon the glittering lights of downtown Benton vanished and soon we found ourselves walking down the old concrete sidewalks that ran beside the grand old houses that marked the residential area of town.

And before I knew it, I was standing in front of the small creole style cottage the Potters called home. The front porch light was on, so I knew that either Lily or Jamie or maybe both of them were in the living room, watching the old grandfather clock in the hallway, counting down the minutes till I returned.

“I enjoyed it Daisy.” I said at last as I peered toward the front porch. “We should do it again!” I quickly added.

“Sure.” Was all he said. At that moment I had hoped he would lean in and kiss me, I hoped he would, I was ready to block him, I was not ready to kiss him yet. I wanted to, I really wanted too, but something was stopping me. After all, I heard you were not supposed to kiss on the first date. And maybe this counted as a date.

“Well, I hope to see you at school on Monday.” He said as he turned away.

“See you Monday..” I said and with that I watched him vanish into the darkness. Once Daisy had vanished into the darkness I started to climb the steps and soon I was walking into the living of the Potter's house. Sitting on the sofa was of course Lily and Jamie both were dressed in nightgowns.

“You fifteen minutes late young lady.” Lily said she stood up from the sofa. “And you and Daisy had better not done anything fishy!” Lily bellowed. “I promised your mom I would look after you!”

“Calm down sis.” Jamie said as she turned toward me.

“Did you enjoy your date Cerridwen?” Jamie asked me again.

I rolled my shoulders and said nothing as I started to climb the stairs toward the guest bedroom. I left a confused Jamie and Lily behind me. Anyway that's how another stone in this long, winding road was laid. I never knew being in a relationship would be this confusing or hard.
To be continued.  

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 4: Daisy Cooking

It was raining the following Monday. And when I say it rained, it came down in sheets, stainless steel colored rain clouds darken the sky and peals of thunder echoed across the land. The wind drove the rain hard against the window panes of the school and bolts of white hot lighting crisscrossed the sky. Thunderstorms down here in Dixie were something to be feared and admired. I loathed and loved them. I loathed them because I hated the sound of thunder, I loved them because the air always seemed a bit fresher after a tremendous downpour.

As was quickly becoming our normal routine Daisy and I found ourselves eating our lunches together in the nurse's office. The room seemed a little cooler, Dawn who loved rain had the windows cracked. Speaking of Dawn she was knee deep into her manuscript, she was having a bit of a writer's block so she seemed to just sit there and brood. So Daisy and I had the chance to just sit around and casually chat. It was really hard for me to see Dawn as an adult or a member of staff. I mean she was only twenty three, but she does not act like she is twenty three, she acts more like she is eighteen or nineteen. In a good way that is.

“Man.” Daisy said peering out the window. “It's pouring cats and dogs outside.” He said rolling rolling his shoulders before returning to his small beef bowl. It was Daisy's turn to bring lunch today. And you know, today I discovered that the boy could really cook. I know in anime it's often the girl who does most of the cooking for the group, but Daisy, well his cooking might even be better than mine. Today's lunch was white rice, tempura catfish, tempura gulf coast shrimp, chilled green tea, three small beef bowls and oddly enough cornbread. It was a strange blend of Japanese and classic southern cooking.

“OMG!” Dawn said as she popped a piece of tempura catfish into her mouth. “Daisy!” She yelled. “This is amazing! You should totally go to culinary school after you've graduated high school.” Dawn said as she reached over with a pair of chopsticks to pick up another piece of catfish.

I narrowed my eyes at Dawn and smirked a little. The tempura catfish was indeed good, Daisy had skillfully sliced the catfish filets paper thin and then had dropped them into a smooth tempura batter and had masterfully fried them up golden brown. The crust was smooth and fluffy and the fish was cooked to perfection. I could tell he had seasoned the fish before hand with Tony Chachere's seasoning salt, a staple found at any southern table.

“Its good,” I said, “I should make you cook more often.” I said in a teasing tone of voice.

“Aunt Josephine is showing a few tricks of the trade.” He said, smirking a little. “Aunt Josephine did attend culinary school, and used to work at one of the boats in Vicksburg before she decided to become a stay at home mom.”

“Is that how you came to stay with the Crofts?” Dawn asked as she peered toward Daisy.

“Yep, My Grandmother Rebecca Daisy Bell had four children, three boys and one girl. She spaced them apart. My dad was the middle boy. His older brother was the first to get married and he has two children. A boy and a girl, he also has a good paying job with the Corps of Engineers down at their Vicksburg station.” He said blushing. “I rarely see them though. He and my dad don't really get along. I only see them twice a year and that is at Christmas and Easter Mass, if I'm lucky.”

I nodded my head and snatched up a few more pieces of fish, and a few more pieces of shrimp for good measure. This stuff was good! I would totally marry Daisy for his cooking alone.

“Oh and the girl?” Dawn asked as she started to shovel a mountain of rice into her mouth.

“My Aunt Lisa was killed in a tragic, not so tragic car wreck about two and a half years ago.” Daisy said, shrugging. His shoulders. “I was about eleven and a half. When it happens.”

“So that's how you're kin to Madeline?” I asked as I put some more pieces of fried fish into my mouth. The smooth texture of the breading, the seasoning of the fish, and the delightful creole punch settled the matter. I would get Daisy to cook for us more often.

“Yep, its a tangled web. We don't have a family tree, we have a family bush.” Daisy said, “Dad's oldest brother married Marian Ford. She is the older sister to Heather Ford, who's the hostess of Heather's House Party, he's the one who works with the Corps of Engineers down at Vicksburg.” Daisy paused, “My Dad William Bell is a lawyer and runs a local law firm down in Vicksburg.. I one older sister her name is Susan and and one adopted sister named Linda.” Daisy paused again. “My dad's youngest brother decided to become a priest. An Episcopal priest.” Daisy said with a sigh. “Anyway it seems like the career path for me, either going to culinary school or seminary. Mom wants me to become a famous chef. Dad says it's really up to me.”

“What do you want to do with your life Daisy?” I asked as I leaned in. I guess being a good girlfriend is letting your boyfriend vent from time to time. I mean honestly Daisy was not really venting right now, but he was opening his heart a little. And if he felt safe and secure enough to open his heart. Maybe I should open my heart too.

“I don't know.” Daisy said with a sigh. “I'd thought about going into office management or something like that. Mom, like I said, wants me to either become a chef or become a lawyer like my dad. My uncle wants me to really consider the priesthood, he says it's a hard but rewarding career. I guess it's a toss up between going to law school and becoming a lawyer like my dad or going to seminary and becoming a priest like my uncle.”

Dawn at this point nodded her head and then decided to enter into our conversation.

“How about you Cerridwen? What do you want to do after graduation?” She asked as she set her now empty lunch tray down to the side.

I blinked and blinked again as I peered toward Dawn. I then set my own food to the side. Daisy was still eating. I swear that boy could clean out an all you can eat buffet and not one ounce of weight.

“I thought about becoming a hairdresser like my mom. Mom's business is really taking off. I sometimes help her make appointments and stuff and she's often booked solid from the time she opens the door till the time she closes down the shop.” I said looking down. “But I also thought about becoming a nurse. I mean nurses are always in demand and Holmes Community College offers a two year nurse's degree. It's also close by too. Like I could drive there in about thirty or so minutes, and if I take the train I could be in downtown Goodman in like forty minutes. But I really think I would like to stay in one of the dorms.” I said blushing.

“Plus its cheap, as far as college's go. And I'm sure if I keep my grades up and I really cram for the S.A.T test I could get a really good scholarship or even attend for free.” I added.

“Your one smart cookie Cerridwen, I think nursing would suit you. I went into nursing and its been a very rewarding career so far. Though I went for a clinic based degree program. Like I'll work a ward for one semester and spend the other semester in a classroom like setting.” Dawn blinked. “I also did a few tours in the E.R and trust me guys, working the E.R in South Jackson was like living an episode of M.A.S.H '' She said shivering.

“Gunshot wounds, stabbing, gangsters coming into the E.R to finish off what they started on the streets. It was something, plus don't get me started on the child abuse cases that I saw on a daily bases. It was something, but Fr. Bell was our hospital chaplain and he really helped us all. I mean if your going to be a priest Daisy, you'll find a good mentor in your uncle. I remember seeing him holding the hand of a well known drug lord who was just pouring out his soul to him. The man was just riddled with bullet holes, and your uncle just held his hand and stroked it.” Dawn blinked.

Both Daisy and I blinked.

“Anyway , I had to get away from it all. Too much death, too much blood. Too many car wrecks. I think the most heartbreaking thing was, about two and a half years ago. This kid came in. Him and his mom had been in a terrible wreck. The kid was bruised to hell and back, bruised ribs, sprained ankle, just bruised and battered. His mom was dead as a doornail.”

“Later, I found that kid was my cousin and his mom was my aunt.” Dawn said rolling her shoulders. “Its really a small world after all.” She added. “Anyway nursing is a demanding career field that demands you put your best foot forward each and every day. It's going to test you girl in ways you never expected to be test, but it's also rewarding and the pay is decent enough.”

Daisy and I blinked again.

The priesthood is a calling, though. And like nursing it's hard. It takes a lot to run a parish, and sometimes it weighs on you. But your stronger than you look and if your faith is strong and you believe totally in yourself you'll be a good one.” And with that Dawn finished off her twenty ounce coke-cola she then tossed the empty bottle into the nearby trashcan.

“Anyway, that's Dawn's career advice for the day. And lunch time is almost over. Thank you again Daisy for the wonderful lunch. And I have a meeting with the school board this afternoon, so I'm shutting up shop early. I trust you two to clean up after yourselves, lock the door and see yourselves to class and not spend the whole afternoon here necking or doing what boyfriend and girlfriends do.” And with that Dawn left. Leaving Daisy and I along.

I was tempted to start up a conversation with Daisy but one quick glance at the revealed that we had only fifteen or so minutes left on our lunch break. With that in mind, we quickly started to clean up. With Daisy and I working together it took only five minutes for us to get everything put away. I was just about to leave when Daisy called out to me.

“Hey Cerridwen, mind if I walk you to class?” He said blushing as he pulled his blue blazer on.

“Sure!” I said, smiling a little. “I have Earth Science next.. its right down the hall.” I said picking up my backpack. A few seconds later Daisy was walking right beside me, and before we could catch ourselves we found ourselves holding hands. I felt a blush color on my high cheekbone as I felt the palm of his strong hand in mine. It caused my heart to race.

“I had fun this weekend. Really, it was the most fun I'd had since coming here to Benton.” He said smiling as he peered toward me. “I've also been enjoying our lunch dates. It gives me something to look forward to.” He quickly added.

“I have too.” I said blushing. “And you're a great cook, you should cook more often.” I added. At that very moment the first warning bell started to ring and the hallway was soon filled with students and teachers trying and failing to direct the flow of traffic. Daisy and I moved along with the crowd.

“Hey! Cerridwen are you free this weekend?” Daisy yelled. The way he shouted it out made me think that he'd been wrestling with this question for a while now. Maybe since our last date or something.

“Sure.” I said, smiling sweetly at him. “Why?”

“I was wondering if you might like to go to the skating rink with me.” He said blushing as he peered toward the ground.

At that very moment a small smile formed upon my face, 'The Skating Rink' was one of those stables of Benton, it was located on Old Highway 16, a old concrete highway that use to connect Benton with neighboring Yazoo City, a fair number of business, mostly mom and pop stores and gas stations dotted the route.
“Sure.” I said smiling and with that I leaned up and kissed him on the cheeks. A moment later I heard the shrill cry of a whistle being blown. And there standing in front of us was a blonde hair, blue eyed, petite woman. Her arms were folded across her chest and she was glaring at us. A silver disk was pinned to the left breast pocket of her uniform. The words 'Prefect' were stamped upon the metal surface.

“I suggest you two get to class.” She said as she peered toward Daisy and I. “I don't feel like giving my little brother and little sister detention because you were both late for class.” She added. The woman's name was Jamie Sarah Potter, student appointed princess, and now first generation prefect of Benton Academy. You see adopting the prefect system had been another one of the reforms that had taken place over the summer.

“Yes ma'am.” I said blushing as I smiled toward Daisy.

“See you Daisy!” I called out and with that I vanished into my classroom. Has another stone been laid? Were we taking things too quick? Or were we taking things too slow? Sighing, I took my seat, dug out my text book and notepad. Classes started a few minutes later, and I tried to pay attention to the lesson. I really did, but my head was spinning with questions. Questions that needed to be answered and only one person to answer those questions and his name was Daisy.

To be continued.

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 5: Confused Feeling

It was still raining like cats and dogs the next day. Daisy and I had lunch like we normally do. It was odd, we all ate in silence., Dawn seemed totally out of it too. Dreading the pending flu season I imagine, that writer's block seems to be kicking her ass. I'll put money on the latter. And Daisy seemed to like he was brooding over something. Our lunch too was boring, peanut butter sandwiches, with a lot of peanut butter and very little bread. Classes went as normal. I was staying with the Potter Family, and would be until the coming Monday evening. Mom and dad's flight had been canceled yet again and it seemed that dad was starting to finally lose his cool with Delta Airlines. Mom had been keeping me informed of all the developments through text, email, and good old fashion facetime.

I guess you're starting to wonder what kind of business trip my mom and dad were on right?  Well dad had just been promoted at his job, you see he works shift work down at Yazoo Chemical, and for the better part of a year he's been taking online college courses and attending workshops at the local vocational center. You know, getting some advanced training and all. And well its starting to pay off. As he had started the new year being promoted to shift supervisor. Which brought a pretty nice jump in pay.

Anyway, the upper management had elected him to attend some kind of business meeting down in Dallas. Mom wanted to tag along to keep dad company and keep him on the straight and narrow. Anyway, since I was deemed too young to stay by myself for a few days they would have been away, the Potter Family agreed to take me in, after all Albert Jonathan Potter and Alice Parker Potter already thought of me as kind of a third daughter, since I was good friends with both of their daughters. I mean Jamie Sarah Potter, their youngest was like my sister from another mother.

Anyway I ramble. I tend to ramble on more and more often these days. Anyway I was busy collecting my school things, you know my text books, my notebooks, pencils, pens, loose sheets of paper. All stuffed into my school satchel. Then out of the blue Daisy appeared, he smiled and that caused me to smile.

“Would you mind if I'd walk you home?” He said as he peered toward me.

“I was going to take the trolley.” I said. “I mean it's pouring down rain.” I said pointing outside, the weather outside had gotten worse. Sheets of driving rain the window pane. The trees seemed to sway and bend. The distant peal of thunder seemed to echo across the land like a roar of a mighty dragon.

“You could share my umbrella.” He suggested. “Where you're going and I'll walk you there.” He said, smiling sweetly at me. It was a disarming smile that almost made me forget about the rain, and the lighting until the lights flicked and another loud boom caused the school to shake.

“Daisy.” I said, peering into his pink eyes. “It's freaking pouring down outside.” I walked toward him. I reached out and spun him so he could face the window. I then pointed with my hand toward the driving sheets of rain driving down at a slant. “If you want to take a chance and walk home in this mess, by all means be my guest. But I'm sorry, I'm going to take the trolley home. At least I would have a roof over my head.” I paused and then hopefully I suggested. “Why don't we ride the trolley together?”

“Sure,” Daisy was now blinking as he watched the sheets of rain drive down hard upon the concrete sidewalk. “I was just hoping to talk to you in private.” He said blushing as he peered toward me.

I started to blush too.

“Sure, I have something I want to ask you too.” And with that we stepped out into the downpour. I sheltered under Daisy's umbrella. I'm going to say it was kind of nice, being so close to him in public. And the fact that everyone was watching us cuddle under the shelter of the umbrella made me feel a little smug, it was like I was saying to the world 'That right! Cerridwen's got herself a boyfriend! And he's a true Southern Gentleman.'.

A few moments later, we were pushing through the blinding rainstorm. Daisy and I had been so wrapped up in our conversation that time had just slipped through our fingers. The trolley's glass door was just starting to close as we rushed up to the iron steps. A few seconds later it was pulling away, splashing water as it sailed along the iron railroad tracks that were bedded deep within the cobblestone paved streets.

I felt a wave of annoyance starting to rise deep within. I don't know where it came from, but I quickly turned toward Daisy and poked his chest. “I'm going to blame you for this.” I said huffing as I turned away and folded my arms across my chest.

“Why?” Daisy was still holding his umbrella over my head.

At that moment my annoyance turned to rage. 

“You are a bloody moron!” I shouted. “Because, if you'd not been flirting with me, we would have caught the trolley in time and been nice and dry, instead we are standing out here exposed to the elements.” I said sighing. “Anyway, you got your dumb wish, you can walk me home now, I hope your happy.” I added.

Daisy blinked and blinked again. After a long minute he finally said something that took my breath away. Despite the insults I'd hurled at him a few minutes ago, his eyes became softer, his hands started to tremble and for the first time since I'd known him, he started to shutter. A little. It was clear he was wrestling with his emotions and they were getting the best of him.

“You know Cerridwen.” He said holding the umbrella close, “I've been thinking about something that really has been bothering me for a long time now. You know, everybody seems to think we're girlfriend and boyfriend.” He said, sighing. “I think it's about time we made that official. I mean you did kiss me.” His voice started to trail a little as he held the umbrella tightly over my head.

“James,” I said blinking, and then I started to blush. “Before I say yes, I would like to ask you, one question that I've been putting off for a while. Because to be honest, I've been afraid to ask, and yet because one one hand I want to know the answer and on the other I'm afraid to hear the answer. So, here goes nothing. “ I paused and took a deep breath.

“James Alexander Bell.” I said. “Are you willing to accept me for who I am?” I said looking dead into his eyes. I steeled myself for his answer.

“I already have.” He said without missing a beat. “I never saw you as a transgender girl, only as a beautiful witch who put a spell on my heart and one whom enchanted me with her beauty.” He said with that same disarming smile.

At that moment something overcame me, a sense of rage that I could not explain. Instead of being touched and soothed by his words, I felt stung by them. And then before I could catch myself, I found myself bringing my open pal across his face. The sound of my open palm slapping his face echoed across the flooded schoolyard. Tears were now stinging my eyes, I wanted to believe his words. I really wanted to, but something was telling me not to. And before I could stop myself I found myself bellowing out the following.

“You are a cruel Bastard James Alexander Bell!” I shouted using his formal name, or government name as we like to call them. “I hope the Gods and Goddess damn that your soul for leading me on like you have!” My shrill voice echoed off the brick wall of the school. The few remaining students who still milled around the common of the school had turned their full attention away from their texting, their gossiping and turned it toward Daisy and I. Who, much to his credit, just stood there. And then I felt it, I felt his free arm reach around me and for a moment he pulled me close to his damp chest. 

“You're scared.” Daisy whispered to me in a gentle, kind, almost understanding  tone of voice. “I can understand being scared. But I meant every word I said.” He said in a soothing tone of voice. “Trust me Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn when I say this, It does not matter to me what you are, who you are, to you are to me my soulmate, my twin flame.” 

I wanted to believe what I was hearing, and there was nothing in his voice that suggested he was being dishonest with me, in fact I believed him, but my heart, my mistrusting heart told me that Daisy may in time become a perfidious lover. Well one side of my heart, the shadow side told me that. Another side told me I should trust him. That he would never do anything to harm me. I was just so confused that I leaped up and threw my arms around him and threw myself into his chest and wailed loudly!

And Daisy, again much to his credit did not freak out, instead he held me, he held me as tight as he could with just one hand and he tried to stroke my hair the best he could. My Salty tears stained the front of his shirt, and yet he just stood there, talking it all in. I don't know how many minutes passed, it might have been only a few or it might have been a handful. But soon I heard Daisy's voice whispering into my ear.

“Hey Cerridwen.” He said, taking a deep breath.

“Yes Daisy?” I said, having calmed down a little. I was finally starting to think straight again. “The trolley was here and we are  kind of holding up the line.” He said in a slightly unsure tone of voice.

“Oh Okay.” I said, I then quickly added. “I'm sorry for snapping at you and slapping at you. I don't know what came over me.” I said blushing as I held onto his shirt a moment later I let go of him, and blushing I started to climb up the iron steps. I was greeted with a blast of warm air. But then I started fumbling for my wallet and my change purse. The fare was three dollars, and I only had a handful of change. I could sense the crow behind me was starting to grow impatient.

“Here” I heard Daisy say, I quickly looked over my shoulder and noticed that he was handing the driver a ten dollar bill. “Don't worry about the change, and pass the remaining amount on.” He said in a cool, calm, almost commanding tone of voice. I felt my eyes starting to moist, a moment later I had to turn away, I could see the outline of hand starting to glow on his cheeks. I had no idea I'd slapped him that hard.

“Daisy, you are such a bloody moron!” I shouted. “Spending your hard earned money on a silly girl who just slapped the ever loving piss out of you because she can't handle the emotions of her own heart.!” I blinked. If mom had heard me talking like this, or using as she said 'Sailor Talk' she would have popped a bar of ivory soap in my mouth, have hauled me over her lap and before I could catch myself my skirt would have been lifted up, my panties would have been pushed down and she'll tanning my hide. My cheeks flushed with color as that mental image came into my mind. 

“Yes,” Daisy said, sighing. “I'm a moron who is in love with you.” He said, taking a deep breath as he pushed me along. “And others are waiting, and quickly making a scene.” He commanded. His voice was starting to take on a different tone. A rougher tone. A more business tone. It made me want to turn around and slap him again.

Once we found our seats, I allowed Daisy to sit by the window since his would be the last stop. 

“Hey Daisy?” I said starting to sniff. I'm sorry about all this, I really don't know what is coming over me.” I said, taking a deep breath. “How about I take you out for ice cream or McDonald's or something, to you know make up for all this.

“Deal,” Daisy said, and before I could catch myself, I found myself leaning over and placing my head upon Daisy's shoulder. “Did you really mean that?” That you love me for who I am?” That your okay with dating a transgender girl?” I asked.

Daisy turned his head and peered out at the window and then peered back at me.

“Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn, why would I ever lie to you?” 

“I don't know.” I said and then I decided to come clean and tell Daisy everything that's been going through my head the last few days. “You know Daisy, when I first met you, I thought you were a nice guy, kind of cute, but not handsome or anything.”

Daisy nodded his head.

“But then I saw you, I saw you playing your fiddle and something changed, you seemed handsome, you seemed poetic, you made me feel things. Like I wanted to hold you, I wanted to be near you, I wanted to touch you, I wanted to kiss you, and I even wanted you inside of me.” I said blushing. The last part was the strangest thing I've ever told a boy.

At that moment Daisy just blinked and peered at me, it was like for a moment I sprouted a second head or something. At that moment I was again tempted to raise up my hand and slap him hard across the face again for good measure. Like damn boy, here I am pouring my heart and soul out to you and all you can do is just stare and blink. 

“What I'm trying to say is, is this, I'm confused, I've never had a crush on anyone. Mrs. Potter says I'm just in 'Puppy Love' whatever that means, Jamie and Lily think I should focus more on my studies than dating a guy. Mom's away on business, and been busy with her shop that really does not have the time to talk about all this stuff. So yes, I'm confused, scared, and really lost.”

Daisy sighed a little and then turned toward the window and then turned towards me.

“Let's work through those feelings together.” Was all he said. “Maybe one day we'll know for sure.” He then reached and placed his hand upon my forehead. A look of great concern came across his face as he peered at me.

“Cerridwen you're warm.” Daisy said as he peered into my eyes. “You're freaking burning up.”

“Only because I'm around you.” I said and with that I moved a little closer, I wanted to feel his body pressing into mine, I wanted to breathe his scent, I wanted to feel the raw strength of his arms wrapped around my willow shoulders.

“No, you're warm as if you have a fever.” His voice trailed a little.

“I'll be sure to take some cold tablets when I get home.” I said, and with that I placed my head upon his shoulders and drifted off into a reckless nap. A few minutes later, I felt Daisy shaking my shoulder, I slowly opened my eyes and noticed he was pointing out the window. He was pointing toward Jamie and Lily's house. I nodded my head and stood, but the minute I stood up, all the blood seemed to rush to the bottom of my toes. And I almost lost my balance. It was a good thing Daisy was there to catch me. Without saying a word, he placed his hands upon me and slowly led me off the trolley onto the brick street and up the wooden steps of the Potter's Front porch.

Jamie answered the door, she looked crossed and I could tell she was about to give Daisy a piece of her mind. No doubt word had spread about me slapping the lights out of him. I felt bad, I really did, but I also felt so tired all of a sudden. And before I could catch myself I found myself starting to sneeze.

“Bless you,” Both Jamie and Daisy said.

Daisy did not give Jamie a chance to release her built up rage upon him, instead he handed me over to her and left. I only watch him off into the blinding rain storm. I think he had forgotten his umbrella on the trolley and the trolley had just left. No doubt he would walk home in the rain. I breathed a prayer for him and for myself. Nobody told me falling in love would be so confusing.

I just hoped that Daisy would find it in his heart to forgive me for slapping him. I really did. And that was the last thought I remembered for as soon as Jamie guided me into the living room, I passed out thankfully, for my own sake, I did not dream.

To be continued.

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 6: Sick in Bed

It was still raining cats and dogs the next day, water was starting to stand in the streets, Wilson creek was out of its banks and Willow Creek was swollen. The Big Black River was at normal levels though, that was a good thing. Nobody was predicting a flood yet, though a rumor was going around the school that if the rain kept up. Homecoming would be canceled this year, which included the annual hostage exchange. Now, Benton Academy has this weird tradition that each homecoming they play their biggest rival Manchester Academy, part of them playing Manchester Academy is that Benton Academy gives up one of her students, in return for a Manchester student. The student who is given up is called a 'Hostage'.

The 'Hostage' is treated more or less like a guest of honor, they sit with the cheerleader, they are normally fed a steak dinner. And normally cheer on their team from the other side of the field. Sounds good right, but there's a catch, the catch is that the student from the losing school is subjected to a humiliating forfeit. Often they are pushed into a home-made gunge tank and covered in slime that is the color of the winning school. Green and White if Manchester wins, and Red and White if Benton Academy wins.

Anyway Homecoming was still a fortnight away. And because I wanted to, I had volunteered to be the Benton Academy hostage, Lily Elizabeth Potter, who was the Captain of the Varsity Cheerleader Squad had accepted it without giving it a second thought. Anyway, my motivation for volunteering was not school spirit as is supposed to be the case, and I could care less about football. No, I wanted to volunteer because no matter who won the game, I would get a sparkling new dress and two tickets for the Homecoming dance afterwards out of the deal.

And well, I'd hoped that Daisy would be attending that dance with. I wanted him to attend the dance with, and you know made it official at Homecoming, It would be so romantic. Even if I ended up getting slimed, it would be so worth it. I just wanted the world to see that Daisy and I were a pair, even though most of the school thought I'd hated him, since I'd slapped the heck out of him yesterday in front of the whole school. That had just been a big, okay huge misunderstanding.

That had been a major social blunder on my part, since according to the grapevine most of the girls at school decided that Daisy was back on the market. And were starting to move in to steal him. My best friend forever, Taylor Anna Croft had kind of made matters worse by jumping Daisy as soon as he came home. My other best friend, Madeline, had crawled Daisy's ass from one side of Benton to the other when word reached her. And Lily and Jamie, God bless their souls, had added to the confusion when they cornered Daisy at their family store. From what was told to me from somebody who had witnessed it, both Potter girls had given that boy a fair piece of their minds.

In the end, I think Daisy decided that dating me would not be worth the hassle, so while I'd hoped and prayed to whomever out there would listen to my prayers that Daisy would decide to accept my offer and go to the Homecoming dance with me. I knew there was also a chance he would reject my offer. I was steeling myself for that rejection.

All of these thoughts flew around my scattered brain mind as I started to climb the concrete steps that lead to the second floor of the nurses office. You see I'd woken up with a scratchy throat and feeling a bit under the weather. Mrs. Potter had noticed while I was having breakfast with Lily and Jamie. All three of them strongly suggested that I stay home from school today.

I was tempted too, so very tempted, but in the end I decided to go to school anyways, after all I had to explain to Daisy why I'd snapped, and to make it up for him. I still owed him some ice cream. But since my friends had jumped him and chewed him out, ice cream might not be good enough. Maybe McDonald's or Pizza Hut. And yes, I still really wanted to buy him some ice cream and talk to him. To air out these feelings.

That had been my plan anyway, instead after the second period I felt the first signs of a fever starting to come over me. Halfway through the second period, I was falling asleep. Instead of being scolded though, I was told to see the nurse, it was clear to everybody but me that I was sick, how sick I don't know. I hoped that it was just a mild cold. The last thing I wanted to get was the flu and miss my date on Saturday night with Daisy, that is, if he still wanted to see me. And I did not want to play the hostage, for my own selfish reasons.

Again all of these thoughts seemed to swirl around me, as I forced myself to climb the wooden stairwell/ My arms felt like they were on fire and my legs felt like lead. Each step forward I took took a huge amount of effort and seemed to drain me of every ounce of strength I had in my slender frame. Once I reached the nurses office, I could barely raise my arm, but somehow I found the strength to knock upon the wood door.

I knocked once, and nothing happened, a moment later I knocked again and still nothing. I was just about to knock again when the door opened and there in the doorway appeared dawn, dressed in a starched white dress with short sleeves. White stocking and white high heel shoes. And to top it off a white apron was tied around her. She looked like a nurse straight from one of the story books my mom used to read me when I was little. Anyway, Dawn just looked at me for a few seconds before pronouncing judgment.

“Summer cold?” She asked as she raised an eyebrow. She moved to the side. “It's going around. We've had fifteen or so students call in today with high fevers, chills, and stuff. And I've sent four home this morning.” Dawn then added. “I could send you home. Or I could let you sleep here for the rest of the day. And give you some over the counter cold tablets.” She said as she motioned for me to step into the nurses office.

“If I can sleep here, that would be a big help. Mom and dad are flying in today from Dallas.” I said, taking a deep breath. “And I'm staying with the Potters and right now they are busy with their shop. I think I just rested a little rest that all.” I said as I slumped down into a nearby chair.

Dawn took notice and peered at me.

“Maybe a touch of the flu too, tell me Cerridwen have you gotten your flu shot yet?” She said as she started to dig through the cabinets. “Oh bloody hell, where did I put that blasted thermometer again?” I heard her whisper under her breath.

“No, I normally get my flu shot around the middle of October, right before Halloween.” I said as I watched Dawn dig, she was reminded of a mole digging through the freshly tilled soil of mom's herb garden that was located behind the house.

“I'll strongly suggest that you get it before then. This flu season is going to be a kicker. Both you and Daisy need both of yours as soon as possible.” She said, sighing then at long last she found what she was looking for. She placed the thermometer on the counter top and started to dig for something else. A few moments later she placed a folded night gown next to the thermometer. The night gown was pink and featured one of the Disney princesses in the middle.

“And with you playing the hostage this year, I would get it. Along with any other shot you're missing.” She paused. “Hey you and  Daisy could come here and I'll give you guys it, I won't even charge you a dime unlike CVS does. Then you two can go out for ice cream or get McDonald's together. It would be a cute girl, like a date.” Dawn smiled as held her hand up to her cheek. “I get to watch over your budding romance, man this is pure gold. If I could draw, I would totally make a manga about you and Daisy, alas I can only write and I'm behind on deadline.”

The last part just flew over my head. So instead of trying to process what Dawn said I focused on the night gown. After a few minutes I muttered the following words.

“Jesus Dawn.” I said with a huge sigh. “Really? Pink and Disney Princesses? I'm a Hot Topic girl, I eat Disney girls for breakfast.”

“Really?” Dawn said as she turned toward me, “You'll sleep better with this on. Plus its just us girls now.” She said, “Now,” She commanded, “Open your mouth and stick out your tongue.” She commanded as she picked up the thermometer.

I did as she commanded and a few seconds later she was sticking the thermometer into my mouth. She stuck it right under my tongue. It is the most uncomfortable thing you can ever imagine. A few seconds later the thermometer beeps after the third beep, Dawn pulled the thermometer out of my mouth. She glanced down at it and then heaved a heavy sigh.

“Girl. What I should do is call the freaking hospital, you're running a high fever.” She said as she turned around. “Anyway I know the quality of the local hospital, it's nothing more than a band-aid station. If I send you there with a mild touch of the flu, you'll be dead by sunrise the next day with something else.” Dawn sighs. “Jesus, no wonder you local's call it 'King Slaughters',”.

I blinked and blinked again. And slowly I started to lift myself from my chair. There was no way in hell I was going to King Daughters Hospital, everybody in town knew it was nothing more than a band-aid station hospital. And what is a band-aid station hospital, well according to Urban Dictionary and I quote, 'Band Aid Station: band aid station small local hospital, typically infers substandard care. Often used by healthcare professionals at large, cutting-edge hospitals. So named because they are only capable of basic first-aid such as applying band-aids.' End quote.

“And where do you think your going Ms. Whitethorn?” Dawn said she gently pushed me back down into the wooden chair.

“I'm not going to King Daughters Hospital.” I said looking up at Dawn. “I'm not going, they almost killed Jamie a year ago! And they told she just had a cold, instead of the flu. And they told Taylor she had a sprained wrist instead of a broken wrist. Plus the hospital is haunted, and even if you were to take me by ambulance. I'll still be in the waiting room for at least a good five or seven hours before somebody sees me.” I said.

“I had no idea things were like that.” Dawn said with a sign. “Maybe the new director will turn things around. I have several friends whom I went through school with that want to settle here. Most of them are nurses but one or two are doctors.” Dawn shook her head. “Anyway go ahead and change into the gown.” She said pointing toward a bathroom that was attached to the nurses office. “I'll prepare the bed in the meantime.” And with that being said, Dawn rose up and walked over to some storage cabinets.

I hung my head down and sighed and picked up the gown, I then walked into the bathroom. A moment later I was stepping out, the first thing I noticed was the gown was one size too big and most damning of all it was pink. I hated it with a passion of a thousand burning suns, it was the most girlish color one could think of, if the gown had been black or even purple it would have been fine. But it was pink, and featured a Disney princess, the one with blue eyes and golden blonde hair, the cartoon image reminded of Jamie oddly enough. At this point my arms felt cold and clammy and I was breathing through my mouth. Dawn noticed and quickly took my uniform from my hand and placed it to the side.

“Okay.” She said, taking a deep breath. “Straight into bed with you!” She said pointing to the hospital. The hospital bed was one of those old fashioned hospital beds, you know the ones with iron railing at the head and a place for a chart to be hung at the foot. I was sure the hospital bed came from the old Mercy Hospital. A Roman Catholic Hospital in Vicksburg that was rumored to be haunted by the ghost of an evil nurse called 'Nurse Spooky' who according to urban legend was said to prey upon children who strayed from their rooms at night.

“Is that bed haunted?” I asked as I peered toward Dawn.

Dawn sighed and shook her head “No, it's not haunted, I don't think beds can be haunted.” She said, peering at me. “Anyway, the sheets are clean and I'd just washed the blanket and pillow this morning.” She said as she started to dig through the mini fridge she kept in her office. A moment later she pulled out a bottle of bluish looking Gator-aid.

A moment later Dawn pushed the gator-aid into my hand, this was followed by two cold tablet tablets. I blinked and popped the cold tablets into my mouth and swallowed a mouth full of gator-aid.

“Drink it all.” Dawn said as she turned her back, she then marched away, “I gotta find a fan.” She called over her shoulders. “It's way too hot in here. Also if you need to take a wee you know where the bathroom is. Just watch when you flesh, the chain sometimes comes off. The plumbing in this school is out of date.” She called out. “Like most things in this town.” She added under her breath.

I rolled my shoulder and finished drinking the Gator-aid, it tasted like water that had been strained through a dirty gym sock. But it was supposed to be good for you after all, right? After all, the cheerleaders drank this stuff like soothing water and so did the footballers. Once I'd finished I tossed the empty plastic bottle into a nearby trash can.

A few seconds later Dawn returned with a big, black, box fan. She plugged the fan in and turned it on high and pointed it toward the bed. I blink and she pointed toward the bed. At this point I nodded my head and turned toward the bed. I still thought the bed was haunted. Like who knows how many people had passed away on that thing. Or worse yet, how many people had gotten their thrills on that thing. Shit with my recent run of luck I might wake up and a ghost would hang around the foot of the thing, waiting to drag my soul to hell.

Anyway I tossed the covers back and climbed into the bed, I lifted the covers back. A few moments later Dawn had plugged in the fan and had turned it directly on me. She was also holding a jar, a blue plastic jar. She eased down upon the bed.

“Here.” She said unscrewing the jar. “This should open up your chest and allow you to breathe a little better.” She said dipping her hand down into the jar she spooned out a big handful of clear cream. Without saying another word she started to rub the cream onto my chest. A few seconds later the fumes from the cream reached my nose and I did start to breathe a little better.

“And now.” Dawn said after she rubbed the cream into my chest. “More Gator-aid and sleep.” She said putting a fresh bottle of gator-aid by my bedside. “I'll wake you up an hour before school lets out and I'll see about getting you some lunch. Until then, get some sleep. Drink plenty of gator-aid, and you know where the bathroom is if you have to wee.” Dawn sighed. “Anyway, I gotta try to get this newest chapter written, my publisher riding my coattails.” And with that Dawn left me.

“Good luck!” I said and with that I laid down and closed my eyes and before I knew it, sleep overcame me.

To be Continued.

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 7: Bridal Dream

I think every young girl at one point or another dreams of being a blushing bride. As soon as my head hit the soft pillow I found myself floating off into dreamland. I found myself standing in the very back of a church, a smaller church this time. The Mahogany pews were filled with people, women were dressed in pastel colored dresses, men in woolen three piece suits with big brass buttons. Sunlight was streaming through the stained glass window panes. At the front of the church there stood a tall brass altar with a bronze unadorned cross in the center. Standing in front of the altar was a tall, lean, handsome man with long brown hair that was tied back in a smooth ponytail. He was dressed in a navy blue woolen suit with big brass buttons. His hands were folded in the center.

I felt my breath being taken away as I peered at the man. That man was Daisy, a moment later I peered down at myself and noticed I was wearing a white bridal dress. My cheeks flushed with color as I looked to the side and noticed my father, my father was dressed in a matching navy blue woolen suit. He was standing straight up and peering straight at Daisy.

A moment later the church's organ came roaring to life and the opening bars of the bridal march started to play. A few seconds later I felt my dad touching my arm. I nodded my head and started to walk, slowly down the aisle. Each step, though I'll call them half-steps, took me closer and closer to the altar. All eyes were focused on me and I could feel the tension rising.

At last it seemed I reached the high altar. I then noticed that standing in the middle was a man with salt and pepper colored hair. He was dressed in a black trousers, a pair of dress shoes, a black long sleeve button down shirt with a white, stiff collar. He smiled at me and then smiled at Daisy. Then it hit me like a ton of bricks, he was a priest.

The man cleared his throat and peered toward the gathered crowds. A second later he cleared his throat again and in a loud, commanding tone of voice called out to the crowds.

“The Lord be with you!”

A moment later the crowd responded, saying in unison.

“And also with you! Friends, future family members, and honored guests. We have gathered here today, in the house of God almighty, and have called you as witnesses. Today we shall join Mr. James Alexander Bell in holy harmony with Ms. Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn.” He paused and turned toward Daisy and in a commanding tone of voice he said. 

“James Alexander Bell, do you take Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn to be your willfully married wife, to love and to cherish? To support in health, illness, poverty, and or wealth?” He asked me in a very commanding tone of voice that made me shiver.

“I DO!” Cried out Daisy in a loud voice that echoed from the high alter down to the very back of the church.

The aged priest nodded his head, no doubt he found Daisy's answer very acceptable.

“And do you Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn, do you you take James Alexander Bell, to your willfully married husband, to love and to cherish? To support in health, illness, poverty, and or wealth?” He asked me in the same commanding voice he used toward Daisy. His steel-gray eyes seem to peer deep into my soul.

I took a deep breath and swallowed hard, this was the moment of truth. I could feel butterflies floating around my stomach. My throat was dry and I was having a hard time thinking straight, I could tell all eyes were on me, but finally, I found the strength to talk and with firm resolve I called out. 

“I DO!” I cried out in a loud, commanding tone of voice.

The priest only smiled. And then he cleared his throat and still smiling he held out his Bible and in a calm, but commanding tone of voice called out.

“Then by the power invested in me, by the Holy catholic church. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride!” The priest called out as he closed back, faux leather bound bible. I took a deep breath and waited with baited breath.

Daisy then turned around and peered at me, I peered right back at him through my veil, slowly he lifted the veil. I smiled at him, he in return smiled at me, and then he leaned in and kissed me, it was magical. I saw fireworks, and the gathered crowd cheered. And for the longest time Daisy and I kissed until we needed to come up for air. A moment later, he and I were rushing down the middle of the church. A moment later we were bounding down the concrete steps, people lined both sides of the concrete walkway. A loud cheer ushered from their throats. Then reaching down into sacks, they pulled out handfuls of rice, laughing, smiling and cheering they tossed their handfuls of rice at us.

The rice showered Daisy and I who only laughed and smiled at each other. Then it happen, something jolted me awake. I knew I was back in the world of the living because the paper thin hospital blanket was wrapped around and Dawn was looking straight at me, she was grinning from one ear to the other.

“Lunch time.” She said turning away.

“Your future husband brought you some Pizza-Hut.” She said, smirking.

“Wait What?!” I blinked as I looked down and clutched the covers in my hand.

“Girl, you were talking in your sleep.” Dawn said, smirking. “And given the way your blushing right now, I'm certain it was about a certain boy. Said boy is waiting for you right now, he's holding a deep dish, meat lovers, large pizza from Pizza Hut. Along with enough soda to float a battleship.” 

I blinked.

“But I'm not even dressed!” I cried out as I failed. I pulled the sheets and covers up closer to me, “And my hair is a bird's nest, and I'm hot and sweaty!” I called out.

Dawn peered at me, she then walked over to the nearby closet and pulled out an old pink housecoat, she tossed the housecoat toward me, I watched the housecoat land upon the bed.  Looked at the housecoat, then at Dawn, then back at the housecoat and then back at Dawn. It was clear as crystal. I was confused.

“Okay.” Dawn said, smirking. “Put on the housecoat, you should find a pair of matching slippers under the bed. Once you put the slippers and housecoat on, I want you to join us girl, remember this time is private. And you're wasting time. So please hurry up.” She said as she turned around and walked away. 

“Hold up!” I yelled and tossed the covers to the side as I jumped out of bed. A moment later I felt my bare feet touching the floor. Quickly I slipped on the slippers and tossed the housecoat around my skinny frame. I then rushed to catch up with Dawn. A few seconds later I was standing nose to nose with Daisy.

“Hey! Cerridwen!” Daisy said blushing. “Listen about yesterday, I guess things got a little tense. I mean, I don't know what happened.” Daisy was rambling at this point and it was kind of cute. I could tell he was at a loss for words.

I smiled and threw my arms around him. Daisy blinked and Dawn blinked, and at that very moment Lily decided to enter the room, just in time to see me pressing my blooming chest into Daisy, whose eyes had gone as wide as saucer plates.

“I guess you two are an item again!” Lily said, smirking a little. “Oh Pizza-Hut! Is there enough for me?” She said down to the small table that normally sat Daisy, Dawn, and I.

“Sure!” Dawn said. “Those two are cuddling and it might be a while,” Dawn said grinning.

“Hey that my Pizza! My boyfriend brought it for me!” I yelled before I could catch myself and with that I let Daisy go.

Lily and Dawn started smirking a little. They both smiled at each other.

“She just called him her boyfriend?” Dawn said grinning as she peered toward Daisy.

“I guess that makes it official then?” Lily said grinning. Her grin reached from one ear to the other. She then turned around and sighed. “Oh young love, first my little sister finds her true love at homecoming, now my other little sister finds her true love at homecoming. It's so romantic.” Then as an afterthought she added. “Now if only I could find true, everlasting love.”

“Pardon me Cerridwen?” Daisy said blushing as he walked up to, he was blushing. “But I've been meaning to ask you, would you be my date for the homecoming dance?” He said blushing.

“YES!” I screamed as I launched myself at him. I wrapped my arms around his neck and hugged him tight and spun around a little, I nearly brought him down too. 

“Well, I guess that does make it official.” Lily said. “Good call, because I know some girls wanted to take Daisy to the Homecoming Dance.”

“Tough luck to them!” I cried out! 

After that, Dawn, Lily, Daisy, and I shared a pizza lunch. We ate in silence, as the clock was ticking, and soon the bell was ringing bringing an end to our lunch. Daisy, and Lily returned to class. And Dawn, made sure I'd brushed my teeth before putting me back into bed.  Three hours later, I was being shaken awake, I was forced to get dressed and then feeling slightly better I walked home, along this time. My alone time allowed me to reflect on my dream. 

To Be Continued.

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 8: Flu Shots

I have trypanophobia or an extreme fear of needles, and I dread taking the annual Flu Shot. Normally my mom has to bribe me with McDonald's if I'm good and take the shot without causing a sense. This year things were different, instead of having mom at my side I had my boyfriend, and instead of getting my Flu Shot at a clinic or hospital, I was getting mine at a local pharmacy.

Benton Pharmacy was the oldest pharmacy in Benton and according to the town its faithful have served the town since 1890 when it opened its doors for business. Beside a locally owned and operated pharmacy, and a mom and pop run business, the business that formed the bedrock of Benton and kept the town afloat. Mom's hairdressing salon being counted among those mom and pop run businesses that kept downtown from becoming another ghost town.

Anyway, Benton Pharmacy offered free Flu Shots to all local students. All you needed to do was show a student ID or a recent report card. And since neither Daisy and I were rolling in money, we decided to get our shots there and together. Dawn, our school nurse had of course offered to give us our shots for free. But, Dawn was Dawn enough said. Sure this is going to sound mean. But I'll trust her at best with a mild cold or a touch of the flu. I won't trust her giving me a shot.

Anyway the inside of Benton Pharmacy looked untouched from when it first opened its doors a hundred and thirty something odd years ago. The floors were wood, one the right side of the there was a marble countertop, behind the counter top was a griddle and some mixing machines. Four old stools could be found in front of the marble countertop. On the other side was a glass case that held various odds and ends. In the middle were some shelves that held stuff.

And at the back was another counter top, this one taller than the rest. Here John Jones Jr. filled all orders. John Jones looked as old as the business, with short cropped white hair, glazed over eyes and a haunting cough that echoed. John Jones had taken over the business from his father the late John Jones Sr. Who had taken over from his father Jim Jones, who had taken over from his father James Jones. Anyway you get the picture, the business was a family business.

Thankfully John Jones Jr. Would not be the one who would administer the flu vaccine, that would fall to his grand-daughter Rebecca Edwards, cousin to Lana Edwards, another prefect at school and another friend of mine. And the only one who had kept her head and had not jumped on Daisy. Anyway Rebecca Edwards like her cousin had flaming red hair and deep blue eyes. She was also the youngest pharmacy technician on staff. So I guess it was because she had received the most up to date training? At least I'd hoped so.

Anyway, Daisy and I were sitting there, waiting for Rebecca to finish reviewing our paperwork. I was snacking on a box of chocolate Pocky and Daisy was reading a light novel. The title of the book was Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai and I was mildly annoyed that he was busy reading instead of paying attention to me.

“What boyfriend reads while his girlfriend is sitting beside him?” I asked pouting.

“I brought you that box of Pocky.” Daisy said without skipping a beat. “And I promised to buy you an extra chocolate milkshake when you've taken your shot.” He added.

I pouted again and chomped down on the chocolate stick of Pocky.

“I should feed you this Pocky through your nose!” I said blushing.

“One stick?” Daisy said in a nonchalant tone of voice. “Because that would be painful, and a waste of good Pocky.”

“The whole box.” I answered before chopping down on another stick.

A moment of silence followed, you could feel the tension rising in the air, I could feel the tension growing, waiting was the hardest part, waiting for your name to be called, waiting for the shot to be given. That moment of tension before the needle was stuck into your shoulder and the button was mashed. It was nail biting.

“Why do you like that book anyway?” I asked as I turned toward Daisy, who still had his eyes glued to the pages of the book. “I've seen the anime and it's okay. Not really my kind of anime.” I added.

“I find bunny girls alluring.” He responded in a dry tone of voice.

“And you don't find me alluring?” I said blinking as I turned toward him. I was getting ready to slap him again. But I held my peace. As much as I hate to say it, I enjoyed this kind of banter.

“I find witches to be very alluring too.” He added as he flipped another page. “And you Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn are a very alluring witch, who has ensnared my heart with her magic and put me under her spell.” He said grinning from ear to ear.

I blushed and folded my arms across my chest, heaved a sigh and leaned back into the chair. I wanted to really slap him again. But there was something about his words, something about them made me feel good about myself. I could feel my cheeks flushing with color.

“What if I decided to cosplay as a bunny girl and serve you tea or an extra large milkshake?” I asked. I have no idea where the question came from. It was just a random question I felt like asking. Maybe because part of me wanted to know how it would feel to cosplay in something sexy. Would my mom approve? Hell no, she'll ground me till I leave for college. Would it be fun, heck yes.

“I would drop to my knees, and thank the gods of anime.” He said. “I would consider myself the luckiest man alive.”

“Fool.” I said pouting again as I turned away from Daisy.

“Your acting is very cute now.” Daisy said. “Acting like that means you want attention. And everybody is looking at us, meaning you want people to notice us. Meaning you want people to see that we are together.”

“I never heard such nonsense in all my life.” I said with a sigh.

Daisy just rolled his shoulders.

“You remind me a lot of 'Kiki' right now.” He added.
I blinked and blinked again as I chomped down upon another stick of Pocky.

“How so?” I asked as I shifted my eyes toward him.

“You just remind me of 'Kiki' that's all.” He said as he flipped another page in his book.

I heaved another sigh and folded my arms across my chest. I was growing tired of waiting and teasing Daisy was proving less fun than I had hoped. I wanted to keep the banter going, anything to keep my mind off the pending shot. A few minutes passed, then I heard a name being called out from behind the counter.

“James Bell!” I blinked and peered toward Daisy, who closed his book, and placed it to the side. He then stood up and rolled up his shirt sleeve. He then started to walk toward this old wooden chair that had been placed toward the side. Rebecca dressed in light blue scrubs smiled as she stepped out from behind the counter, she was holding a plastic tray. Daisy eased down into the chair,

With bated breath, I saw her soak a small cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. I watched her rub the cotton ball on Daisy's arm. Daisy seemed as cool as a cucumber as he just sat there watching Rebecca work. A moment later, Rebecca was pushing the needle into Daisy's arm. A second later a pink bandage was placed over the injection site.

“See nothing to it.” Daisy said smiling. As he slipped off the chair.

“BAKA!” I muttered under my breath. At this point I was aware that I do indeed watch too much anime. Daisy only smiled at me though. I was about to say something when Rebecca called my name out.

“Cerridwen Whitethorn!” She called as she peered toward me.

I blinked and blinked again and I felt my cheeks flush with color. I turned away for a moment, then looked down at the ground, then I felt myself starting to flush a bright red. I had no idea why I was blushing, I just was. But I had an idea. A silly idea, but one I wanted to act upon. Taking a deep breath I peered toward Rebecca and in a unsure tone of voice I asked.

“Can I sit in my boyfriend's lap while I get my shot?” I asked.

I swear to the stars you could have heard a pin drop in that room the moment I asked that question. All eyes turned toward me and I felt my cheeks flush red with color. Rebecca looked at me for a moment, before shrugging her shoulders. Daisy just gave me a sideways glance.

“Okay if that's what you want..” Rebecca's voice trailed a little bit.

A few seconds later, I found myself folding my skirt down as I eased myself down upon Daisy's lap. Daisy was blushing with embarrassment and I was purring with content. This was just too perfect. I wrapped my arms around Daisy and turned my shoulder toward Rebecca. I closed my eyes and waited. I felt the rubbing alcohol soaked cotton ball rub across my skin, I took a deep breath and felt Daisy arms being wrapped around me. I then felt a pinch and then I heard Rebecca saying.

“Okay your done.”

“See.” Daisy said as I opened my eyes. “Was that so bad?”

I knew only one word, and I said that word without thinking.

“Baka” I muttered under my breath as I snuggled into his chest. Oh he smelt so good, so good, I just wanted to spend all my life trapped in that one moment, of me sitting in his lap, holding on to his shirt, my head resting upon his chest. It was pure magical, it was more than magical, it was delightful. My eyes fluttered and slowly I closed them.

“Hey Cerridwen?” Daisy said a moment later. “We need to move, others are waiting to get their flu shots?”

“Five more minutes.” I muttered as I nuzzled closer into his chest.

“WOULD YOU TWO GET A BLOODY ROOM ALREADY!” Somebody shouted. Maybe some Jerk who does not understand how pure our love is. Anyway with that being said I slipped off Daisy's lap and smiled. A few minutes later we were sitting at the marble counter together.

Now there is some debate among the local's who has the best home-made hamburger here in Benton. Some claim that Joan's has the best hamburger hands down, others claim that Chuck's has the best, still others claim the best hamburger can be found here at Benton Pharmacy. The only thing I know is Daisy was buying the hamburgers and fries and I was buying the milkshakes.

The hamburgers were pretty big, huge patties of meat that were the size of my hand, and the fries looked like a mountain of golden fried crinkle cut potatoes that were seasoned with salt and pepper. It was also cheap, cheaper than Joan's. The bun was also toasted. And with a large coke-cola to wash it all down with I was hog heaven.

“I think they beat Joan's, but Chuck's is better.” Daisy said as he finished his hamburger. He was using the last few of his crinkle cut french fries to mop up the drippings. He claimed the drippings were the best part, because that was where the real flavor was. Or so he claimed.

“But nothing beats your cooking.” He quickly added.

I felt my cheeks starting to flush a little.

“So,” I asked. “If I dressed up as a bunny girl, say for Halloween would you like that?”

“That is a random question.” Daisy answered.

“I mean, yes, I think you would look sexy in the outfit.” Daisy said, shrugging his shoulders. “But would your mom approve of it?” He added.

“I don't know..” My voice trailed a little. And with that another episode in life drew to a close. It was scary how things were progressing between Daisy and I. I think only a fortnight had passed since I saw him playing in the music room. Maybe we were moving too fast, but then again, I've heard of some people falling in love with each other after only spending a few hours with each other. I'm not sure if this was love or lust. But I enjoyed spending time with Daisy and I guess right now that all that mattered.
To be continued.

The Courtship of Cerridwen Circe Whitethorn
Chapter 9: Mother's Advice

I don't think there is anything more precious to a daughter than spending time with her mother. Since becoming Cerridwen my mom has made a point to spend more time with me, guiding me if you will down the fable path of womanhood. At first I tried to hide the fact that I was seeing a boy from my mom. But people talk in this small town and my mother has an ear for gossip. Plus, she was a hairdresser by trade, and people love to gossip while getting their haircut, colored, styled, and washed.

And it goes without saying that southern women love to gossip, so it goes without saying that it was only a matter of time before one of those lovely old southern woman whom adores mom and considers her hands blessed by the gods, told her how nice it was that her daughter was dating that nice young gentleman from Vicksburg.

Mom, who had no idea I was talking to Daisy or that I'd sat in his lap while getting my annual flu shot, was stunned, but instead of losing her cool, she allowed the woman to talk,  the said woman in question, which happened to one of my teachers. So she told mom everything, including my lunch dates with Daisy in the Nurse's office, the slapping incident, me being sick, our movie date, and me sitting on his lap during my annual flu shot. The last one amused mom, because she had done the same thing when started dating.

I ramble on again. Anyway mom had been away on business with dad when all of this had transpired. Anyway, faced with these facts, mom decided that she and I should have coffee one afternoon. The place she chose for our coffee date was none other than the patio section of Sweet Magnolia. Sweet Magnolia was a southern take on maid-cafe. Its full name was “Sweet Magnolia Bakery and Tea Room” and was famous for two things, fresh baked pies, cakes, and fresh brewed coffee. It was also famous for its wide selection of teas. It was also infamous for the fact that most of the staff wore frilly maid dresses.

I should know I helped out the two owners from time to time. The two owners were Lily Elizabeth Potter, big sister to Jamie Sarah Potter, who was my best friend and mentor and Robin Katherine Peers. Who was a bit of a slave driver. Also the two “Head Maids” that what they called shift-leaders were my best friends and mentors too, they were Jamie Sarah Potter, and Madeline Diana Brewer. Below them you had “Maids” , your average workers, two of whom I was also friends with their names were Willow Peers, little sister to Robin. And Taylor Anna Croft.

Now I'd been promised a job, once I get a workers permit first of course. But mom wanted me to focus on my studies first and feared getting a full time job would cause my grades to suffer. Lily though had promised to only have me work a few days a week and promised to use her network of spies to keep taps on my grades. If my grades started to slip, then my hours would be cut as a result and the other girls would band together and tutor me and help me bring that grade back up.

Anyway that was all in the future. Like this summer, I still had to make it through my Sophomore year. Anyway I ramble, I think I tend to ramble more and more as time goes on. Anyway, returning to the story now. The afternoon was kind of perfect, Homecoming was less than two weeks away, the leaves on the trees had started to turn from green to gold, orange, and rust red. A gentle breeze kept away the mosquitoes, black flies, and gnats. All in all it was a perfect, late summer, early autumn afternoon.

Like I said before, mom and I had been seated in the patio section, and since it was a weekday, the area was almost deserted, so it was really the perfect place to have a semi-private conversation. Mom was dressed in a lavender colored sundress, her long black hair was pulled back tight bun and she wore just enough make-up to accent her eyes and her facial features. She sat across from me, gently sipping her coffee, if you can call it coffee at all. Mom likes to have plenty of sugar and cream in her coffee.

Me on the other hand had settled on a cup of creamy hot chocolate.

“So Cerridwen.” My mom said as she sipped her coffee. “A little birdie told me you have a boyfriend now.” Mom said as she placed her cup of coffee down. She then leaned back in her chair and smiled at me, “Tell me, what is he like?”

I blinked and took a sip of my hot chocolate. My mind was a storm in a tea-cup right now. I'd been preparing to answer that question since Daisy and I started seeing each other. But now that it was time to answer that question, my mind was drawing a total blank.

“Well.” I said blushing. “He's cute, soft spoken, bookish, he often quotes The Rubaiyat. And he treats me like a lady.” I added. As I reached down and picked up my cup of hot chocolate. I took another sip. “And I try to treat him like a gentleman. He buys lunch one day, and I buy lunch the next. He buys the tickets, I buy the snacks. I know respect is a two way street and I want things to be..” My voice trailed.

Mom nodded her head.

“I see,” Mom then reached over and placed her hand on my hand. “Cerridwen, there a old saying, that goes something like this, life is a box of chocolates, you never really know what you're going to get. To get a better idea from where I'm coming from, most mothers expect there new born baby girls to bring home a boyfriend in about fifteen or so years. They also expect there new born baby boys to bring home a girlfriend in roughly the same length of time.” Mom paused to take another sip of her coffee.

I nodded my head. I wanted to say something, but something told me to just hold my tongue and let mom finish what she wanted to say. Mom could get pretty long winded. So it was best just to buckle up and listen to her.

“Anyway, for fourteen years, I've been preparing myself for you to bring home a girlfriend. Then about a year or so ago you came out as Cerridwen and I discovered my son was really my daughter.” She paused. “Don't get me wrong, I always wanted a baby girl. And if things had worked out. I'm sure I would have given you a little sister to tote around and look after. Anyway, once the shock of you coming out had worn off, I felt this sense of joy. Like I get to have the daughter I always wanted.” Mom said as she took another sip of her coffee.

“Anyway, you're a teenager and teenagers start developing feelings for each other. And it's only natural that you want to have a boyfriend. Now this might be true love. I mean I was only eighteen when I met your father and twenty when I married him.” Mom continued. “So I'm not going to rule anything out. I just don't want you to get too wrapped up in this okay?”

I nodded my head.

“There are so many things you need to do first before you settle down, and there are plenty of fish in the sea.” Mom paused to take another sip of her coffee. Then she continued. “I mean we still need to get you driving, you still need to get that work permit.” Mom paused. “Yes, I decided that I'll let you start working here this autumn.” Mom said with a small smile. “Lily assured me that she'll keep an eye on your grades. Also you'll have to maintain a 'B' average in all your classes in order to keep working here.”

I nodded my head, all that made sense to me.

“And of course, we need to get your boyfriend to meet your father. You know how your father is, he's the old fashioned type. The kind of man who would want to sit down and have a man to man talk with him. Maybe take him fishing or hunting.” Mom said with a sigh.

“Daisy and I have a date this Saturday.” I said finally, “He's going to take me out to the skating rink. So maybe this coming Friday..” My voice trailed a little. “We could invite Daisy over to our house and have him meet daddy?”

Mom blinked and sighed as she drained her coffee.

“Of course sweetheart.” Mom then peered directly at me. “I would love to have your boyfriend over for dinner. Though I would suggest we make it Sunday instead.” Mom closed her eyes and leaned back in the chair. “Daisy can spend the night with us, we'll all then go to Mass at the Episcopal Church in town. Then we'll pick up some KFC and have Sunday dinner here.”

“Wow mom.” I said blushing. “Sounds amazing.”

“Yes, I don't feel like cooking this weekend. But one day, we should invite him over for some of my special fried chicken.” Mom said as she slowly opened one eye. “Better yet, you can fry the chicken and I'll just walk you through the steps of cooking it. Fresh fried chicken, fried golden brown with a crispy, buttery crust, crispy on the outside, moist and tender on the inside. Collard green seasoned with strips of bacon and fat back. Garden fresh okra fried in an egg wash. Crescent rolls, and sweet tea.”

“Mom, you're making my mouth water.” I said finishing off my hot chocolate. At that moment Jamie appeared and without saying a word she placed another mug of hot chocolate down in front of me.

“Good. Because you'll be doing most of the cooking.” Mom said, smirking.

“Daisy does enjoy my cooking.” I said returning a smirk with one of my own.

“That's how I won your father over. That and a special  love potion.. and no I'm not telling you how to brew a love potion. That one brand of magic that I'll take to the grave with me.” Mom shifted her eyes around.

“Anyway, I brought this for you.” Mom then reached into her purse and pulled out a small novel. It was around the size of your average manga. The title of the book was, Gakkou No Kaiden: A Spine Tingling Collection of Ghost Stories. The author, much to my surprise, was none other than Dawn Sharbrough. My friend and mentor and also the new school nurse of Benton Academy. 

“Wow thank you.” I said looking down at the book. See mom rarely buys anything new, we are not the richest people in the world, and most of the things we buy are second hand, most of my clothing comes from second hand shops, most my toys growing up came from second hand shops, most of mom's cooking ware had been passed down from one generation to the other. Most of dad's work shirts were second hand too, as were most of his mom's clothing as well. So for her to buy something brand new, was pretty amazing.

“You're welcome. I really don't know what kind of books you read anymore, but I know you love ghost stories and I figured this small collection of ghost stories might even inspire you.” She paused and took another sip of your coffee again. “Anyway,  the plan going forward I'll say. We'll introduce your new boyfriend to your father this weekend. Have Sunday dinner at our place, and in about a week we'll take you to Vicksburg to get your Learners permit. I might even talk with Josephine and see if we can bring Daisy along. So both of you can take the test together.” Mom said with a sigh.

I blinked and blinked again.

“One step at a time my love.” Mom said giggling. “One step at a time.” She repeated as she took another sip of coffee. “Remember Rome was not built in a day.” She added.

And with that another episode in daily life comes to end.

To be continued.