Scene: The Breeze Cafe.
Luke
sits in admiration as he stares deeply into the eyes of his girlfriend, Veronica
. Although they’ve only been dating for a year, and perhaps they rushed things a bit in the beginning, they were finally at that point where they felt comfortable enough to tell each other anything. Coming from a conservative family, Luke had been pleasantly surprised when everyone opened Veronica into their home with open arms. Being the first African-American that Luke had dated, he was initially unsure if there would be any feelings of uncertainty from his family. He was quite content though that everyone saw past the color of her skin and welcomed her into the family.
In fact, his mother
, had recently started grilling him about grandchildren. Nearing thirty, Luke knew that the question of children would come up soon. But not this quickly…
"So, I was thinking…" Veronica begins, but quickly trails off in thought.
"Don’t hurt yourself now!" Luke jokes.
"Oh, shush! It’s actually pretty serious, Luke. I figured you wanted to wait until we got our first home, but I think the question should be put on the table: when do you want to start planning for a family?"
"Family?! We’re not even married yet, Veronica."
Veronica is taken back by his quick response and instantly feels foolish for saying anything.
"Look," Luke starts as he lays a hand on top of hers. "You know I love you and I want us to have a happy life together. I just need time to make it all happen. I should be in for a raise at work soon, and if all goes well, we’ll have the combined income to get approved for a house. Then, and only then, can we start thinking about marriage and children."
"I understand….the only problem is that you’ve been singing the same song for a year about this supposed raise…and I still haven’t seen it. Not that I am with you for the money whatsoever, but I’m just saying, if it doesn’t happen you need to think about things. I mean, am I going to just be your girlfriend forever?"
"Wow," Luke replies as he releases his hand from on top of hers and cracks his knuckles. "I don’t know what to say, Veronica. I really don’t know what to say…"
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