Ive decided, Im going to get married, the son declared at supper.
Father chuckled, and Mother paused mid-bite, turning to stare at her boy.
What do you mean? she asked, puzzled. To whom?
Shes new, he sighed, propping his chin on his hand. So pretty, so clever, so charming.
Hed lost his appetite for days because of her, and nothing seemed to go right anymore.
Does the girl know about this? Father said, half-smiling, trying not to laugh.
Yes… I told her today, and she said she doesnt mind, but only if I have a flat, he replied.
You have a flat? Mothers eyebrows shot up.
Well, yes, sort of. I mean, we live in a flat. Youve got a car, Dad, and I promised Id borrow it for the wedding…
Father shook his head, as if to say he hadnt agreed to anything of the sort and wouldnt be lending his car out that easily.
And what does she have to offer? Is she a proper bride? Mother had already joined the conversation.
Oh yes, her son replied enthusiastically. Shes sweet, and her manners are lovely.
Mother struggled not to laugh and pointed to her sons plate. Youre not eating a thing.
Leave him be, hes thinking about the wedding all the time, Father joked. But youre forbidden to marry until you show me your maths and English marks.
The boy looked at his father in horror. All day hed thought only of the girl, and hadnt touched his schoolwork. His spelling today was dreadful, distracted again by the new girl in class. She was hands-down the most beautiful girl hed ever seen. He wasnt the only one smittenso he poured all his energy into winning her heart, rather than improving his grades.
Oh, come on, Dad!
Now youve eaten, go on and do your homework. No wedding, no flat, and certainly no car, dear boy, while your marks are below a D.
Offended, he stood up, but obediently headed to his room.
Oh, these fifth-formers, sighed Mother.
Dont even mention it, agreed Father, shaking his head with a smile.
