Eternity (Circle of Light) by April Margeson Page A

screaming elementary school kids.  I would just be soaking wet.  My hair would end up getting frizzy, my feet would get wet and I would be in a really bad mood either way so I suppose it doesn’t matter.
    “Dinner is ready guys.” Mom called from the kitchen.  Dad had already set the table.  Mom had fixed our plates before she called for us to come eat.  She had arranged the food beautifully.  Our plates looked like we were in a fine restaurant.  I’ve always loved that. She puts her heart into everything she does for us. I couldn’t ask for a better mother.
    Mom told us about her hiring the other attorneys.  They are going to begin work next week.  She was excited.
    Dad struck up a conversation with Eric.  I could feel the butterflies in my stomach already.  It made me nervous for Dad to be around him.  I don’t understand why. I guess it’s normal.
    He asked Eric was from.   “I’m from Nashville .” he replied. 
    Dad continued questioning him. Eric seemed to be calm thro ugh it all.  He answered my Dad’s questions about his parents and everything from sports to driving.  They seemed to be enjoying each other’s opinion on things.
    I ate quietly as they talked.  I looked up and Mom was giving me one of those its ok looks.  I smiled back at her.  The more they talked and laughed, the calmer and more relaxed I became. 
    Dinner came to a happy end.  Dad asked if Eric and I would mind to clean up.  Of course, we said yes. 
    Eric gathered the dishes and loaded the dishwasher as I wiped down the table and counter tops.  My parents watched from the table.  We finished with the cleanup and Eric said he had to get home and do some things around the house.
    “Do you need any help?”  I asked.
    “No.  I don’ t think so.” 
    He went over to the table and thanked my mom for dinner.   It was very delicious.  
    Dad stood up and shook Eric’s hand.  “You’re welcome anytime.” Dad told him.
    “I was wondering, umm, if after I finished my chores at home, maybe I could, umm, come back and visit with you all some more?”  Eric asked, clearly nervous about how my parents were going to react to his question.
    “Yeah, sure, that will be fine.” Mom said happily.
    I walked him to the door.  He kissed me and told me he would be back in about an hour or so.  I thanked him as he left.   I couldn’t believe that I had found such a wonderful guy.  He was everything I had ever thought I could want.  The great thing about it is that I think he feels the same way about me.
    I walked back in the kitchen to talk to Mom and Dad.  “So, what do you think of Eric?”  I asked almost wishing that I hadn't.
    “I think he's great.” My mom beamed.
    “Mom, I already knew you liked him.”   
    “I think he's great too , Bailey.” my Dad said and I could feel all my tension being washed away by his declaration.
    “He reminds me a lot of myself when I was that age.  He's polite and is very mature for his age.” Dad cleared his throat and I knew more was coming.  He asked about our relationship. 
    “Well Dad, he's my boyfriend.”  
    He sat there for a moment looking at the table.
    “You guys look pretty serious about each other.  I just want you to keep your head on right when it comes to him.”               
    “Don’t worry Dad.”  I tried to reassure him. 
    It’s just that you'll be graduating next week and now you have a boyfriend.  I guess I just feel like you've grown up too fast, but you really haven’t he said solemnly. 
    I felt sorry for him in a way.  “I’m still your little girl Daddy ,” I said as I hugged him. “I’m just getting bigger.”   
    “I guess so.  Old’ Dad’s going to have to let you live your own life now. Next thing I'll know Eric will be over here asking my blessing.” He laughed.
    “Don’t get in too big of a hurry there Dad!”  I exclaimed. I gave him another big hug and kissed him on the cheek. 
    “I