The Unexpected Romance
By Amy Sadler ©2025
Introduction
Carl Slater, aged eighteen, had always considered himself an ordinary lad—one who preferred trainers over plain and boring shoes and would much rather spend his weekends playing video games than browsing for formal wear. His best mate, Freddie Flintoff, a year older and twice as cheeky, was the sort who could turn even a walk to the corner shop into an adventure. With their final school prom just around the corner, excitement and nerves buzzed through their huge New York suburb.
Both Carl and Eddie were walking down the street, side by side. Carl had short blonde hair, blue eyes, he stood at 5ft 4in tall and he had a slender figure, that even most girls would kill for, to have. If it was not for his short, hair, he could very well pass for a girl. Whereas Freddie was very much the macho guy, he had a muscular body, he was 7ft tall, he had short black hair and cat green eyes. “Say Carl, are you going to the Prom this upcoming Saturday night?” Said Freddie, quite casually. “You know that I do not care for such a thing like Prom Freddie! I honestly can’t see what people see in it or what the fuss is all about.” Exclaimed Carl in surprise.
“Don’t tell me that you want to see me dance alone, again?” Asked Freddie in concern, yet with a touch of amusement at the same time. “How could you possibly end up having to dance alone, I will never be able to figure out.” Remarked Carl, who simply could not figure out why Freddie did not have a girlfriend by now, with his good looks and all. “It’s my height and big frame. Most girls are simply frightened by me.” Replied Freddie, rather matter of factually. Carl looked at him with genuine surprise. “I would have thought most girls like muscles on a guy!” Exclaimed Carl. “Yes, but not guys that are also much taller than what they are.” Replied Freddie, sounding a little sad about that fact.
“I would have thought that girls would like tall guys too!” Exclaimed Carl in shock. “The problem is that I am tall as well as muscular, for some reason, girls simply find that combination to be most intimidating.” Remarked Freddie, sounding even more sad. “I honestly don’t get girls.” Said Carl with a laugh. “Neither do I mate. Neither do I.” Remarked back Freddie with equal laughter.
Little did Carl know what his friend would dare him to do.
