#204: First Times

-2008
-The sea
-A large brisket. A massive loaf of bread
-His mother looks on calmly at the non-Jew his son has brought home
-His brother is telling his father all about how medical school is progressing.
-He’s doing well.
-Top 15%
-Finished his exams and is all ready to apply his knowledge to the hospital environment
-The cottage is full; every bed and sofa is taken.
-It is the peak of summer.
-All the windows are open.
-The table has been set on the beach. Mother has been preparing all day.
-The girl is unfamiliar with this feasting tradition but is reassured by his boyfriend’s smile.
-His hand dives under the table and finds her leg.
-Smooth and supple on the rough surface of his palm.
-She’s said: Tonight
-He can’t wait for the dessert to be served.
-They are smiling at each other. They know they’ll have some alone time soon.
-At the moment, legs and hands will have to do.
-The younger brother Freddy is making faces at his brisket. It’s uncertain whether he’ll throw it or fall asleep.
-Everyone’s very tired. But Freddy’s been running around on the beach all day while the others have soaked up the sun.
-There’s a lot riding on tonight.
-Mum wants to impress this girl. Kill her with kindness.
-She expects a ring.
-Dad knows it’s going to be tonight.
-Mother has her ear plugs all sorted.
-There’s a lot riding on this.
-She smiles. She’s so happy she’s been warned about his family.
-He’s so glad he’s found the one.
-It’ll be dessert soon and he hopes she keeps her promise to say yes in front of his family.

-Freddy falls flat into his brisket.

ENDS

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