Finally the day came, the big date they had planned for the past couple weeks. They both got to the little burger joint on the edge of town and ordered the same thing, a simple burger, fries, and a coke. Neither seemed to be too interested in digging in as they were having such a good time really getting to know each other without the company of classmates or parents. Besides, they already knew each others favorite music, colors, movies, and foods; they were both more interested in learning what each other wanted beyond high school, and what they really thought about issues beyond themselves. Hugh wanted to know what Bernadine wanted to be doing with the rest of her life, and whether she saw herself remaining in town. Bernadine was interested in whether or not Hugh was really interest in working for his father and what he hoped for with a family. While it might have been a little early on for them to be talking about such long term and serious matters, they both were more mature and focused than many of their peers, and were curious. They both came from small families, Hugh an only child and Bernie having only a sister; they both wanted to have at least two children, Bernadine insisting that more than four probably being too many. This led them into talking about how they had been raised, and finding out that their parents were an awful lot a like; being very strict but allowing plenty of opportunity for acquiring trust and responsibility. But they eventually realized their food was going to be need reheating if they didn't start eating it soon, and began to start picking at it as they continued to chat. They did manage to work their way through their dinner, and Hugh took Bernie back home as he was looking forward to chatting with her mom again too. This time hoping to hear some tales about Bernie as a little girl, as she had already got to hear tales about him. He did get that opportunity too, and actually got to witness the rare event of seeing Bernie blush. It got a little late though, and Hugh headed off home. Bernie and her mom spent a few minutes talking about the date. Bernie's mom just had to prod Bernie to take it slowly, not to rush anything, there plenty of life left to live, and plenty of time for them to see if this will ever lead to more than dates. With the evening concluded, they hugged and each went off to bed. Thanks for following along! Have a great night!