Ive decided that Im going to get married, I declared tonight at dinner.
Dad chuckled, and Mum paused mid-bite, staring at me.
What on earth do you mean? she asked, bewildered. To whom?
Shes new, Mum. So pretty, so clever, so utterly charming, I sighed, resting my chin on my hand.
This girl has made me lose my appetite entirely I cant focus on anything properly anymore.
Does the girl know about this? Dad asked, struggling to conceal his grin.
Yes I told her today, and she said she didnt mind, so long as I had a flat, I explained.
Do you have a flat? Mum asked, surprised.
Of course I do. Well, we live in a flat, dont we? Dads got a car, and I promised her Id borrow it for the wedding
Dad shook his head, as if to say he hadnt signed up for any of this, and there was no way Id be borrowing his car anytime soon.
What about her? Mum chimed in. Is she a good bride?
Yes, shes lovely and well-spoken, I replied, eagerly.
Mum was barely keeping a straight face, gesturing at my plate.
You barely touched your food, she teased.
Leave him be, hes got his mind on his future wedding, Dad joked. But I forbid you from marrying anyone until you show me your marks in maths and English.
I stared at Dad, terrified. Id spent the whole day daydreaming about the girl, completely neglected my homework, and todays dictation was dreadfulshes the most beautiful girl Ive ever seen. I wasnt the only one who fancied her, so Id invested all my energy in winning her heart rather than schoolwork.
Come on, Dad!
Now youve eaten, go and finish your homework. No wedding, no flat, no car, as long as your marks are below a C, Dad insisted.
I felt wounded, but obediently got up and left for my room.
Ah, these Year 6 children, Mum sighed.
Absolutely, Dad agreed.
