New beginnings

8

Caitlin stepped in the house. What the hell was Barry doing here? When Barry's dad had said his wife had invited her to dinner, he had assured her that Barry had his own place, and wouldn't be joining them. Caitlin looked around the house. It was very pretty. Suddenly, Barry's mum came up to her

"You must be Caitlin "

"Yes, I must"

"My husband talks about you constantly"

"All good things I hope?"

"Of course. Just that your a very hard working member of his team"

"Well, he's a lovely boss"

Caitlin wandered into the lounge, and dining room

"You have a lovely house"

"Thank you. I try"

"Now, can I help you with anything?"

"No. You sit and talk with Barry. Me and my husband have got everything covered"

Caitlin sat down and tried to read a medical magazine that was lying on the table, but couldn't because she felt uncomfortable as Barry's eyes were on her. So she got up and walked into the kitchen 

"I know you have said you got everything covered, but I feel bad, leaving you to do everything. Can I not help a bit?"

"Well if you're insisting, you can take these bottles of wine to the table. We weren't sure what you would like, so we got a bit of everything"

As Caitlin went back inside Barry's dad cornered his wife 

"Don't tell me that the only reason you invited Caitlin to dinner was to set her up with Barry?"

"Fine, I won't tell you"

"How many times must I tell you? Leave Barry alone" said his dad, slightly raising his voice 

"But Caitlin is perfect for our Barry. She's beautiful, well educated, good job. She'd make a wonderful daughter-in-law."

"Yes I know"

"Well then why are you so against me setting them up?"

"Because I think it's happening without your interference"

"Meaning?"

"Meaning I think Barry genuinely likes Caitlin"

"How do you know?"

"Call it a dads hunch, but Barry's started to come by the hospital more, only when it's Caitlins shift. He says he comes to see me, but I notice his eyes never leave Caitlin"

"Wonderful. They'll make a lovely couple" said his mum, rubbing her hands in glee

"So please no more interfering. Just let them work it out themselves"

Soon everyone was seated at the dinner table, enjoying a lovely meal.

"This is gorgeous"

"Why thank you Caitlin. Lovely to see someone appreciates my hard work and cooking"

"So Caitlin, tell us about yourself?"

"Not much to tell really. I'm from a small town, and moved here when I got this job"

"Have you always wanted to be a nurse?"

"Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to help people. So this job is perfect"

Caitlin was having a hard time talking to Barry's parents, as he was constantly watching her and playing footsie with her under the table. Caitlin kicked Barry's leg in return, causing him to yelp

"What's wrong dear?"

"Nothing mum, I think I pulled a muscle"

Caitlin tried not to laugh as she drank her wine. She received a dirty look from Barry 

"Well this has been a wonderful evening, but I should go. I've got an early start tomorrow"

"None sense. I'm sure my husband won't mind you being late for once. Anyway, I haven't had a chance to talk to you"

"There's nothing interesting about me. I work, go home, repeat"

"Haven't you made any friends, since you're new in town"

"Too busy working. I've got lots of old mates, who I trust truly. I don't trust new people easily"

"You live alone in such a big city?"

"Yes I do. I'm truly happy alone. I don't need a man. I'm a very independent person"

Caitlin grabbed her coat and bag and said her goodbyes. She noticed Barry was leaving too. She stepped outside and breathed in the fresh air. She noticed Barry walking down the street.

"Bye latte. Tonight was fun. See you soon"

"Wait Barry. I'm probably going to regret this, but would you like a lift?"

"That would be nice" said Barry, getting in the car

Caitlin got in and silently sped away. How bad can one lift be she thought?

Duff duff duff. One car ride, it can't be that bad, or can it? Evil laugh! As always feedback appreciated