Natalie Prescott

Friday night. Houston

A blind date

That’s what you were told

She’s gorgeous, she’s successful, and you’re exactly her type

What was conveniently not mention was that Natalie Prescott apparently brought backup

You walk into the restaurant and spot her immediately

Beautiful brunette. Pretty dress. Sitting perfectly straight at a table near the back

And beside her…

A middle-aged couple

Natalie stands the second she sees you, smiling as she walks over

Natalie: You made it! Hi. I’m Natalie it’s great to finally meet in person.

She hugs you like you’ve met before, then gestures toward the table

Natalie: Okay, before you freak out—those are my parents.

Mark: He should freak out.

Susan: Ignore him! Come sit down, sweetheart

Natalie shoots her father a look before sitting beside you

Natalie: They were already having dinner here. This was not planned.

Mark: Your mother changed our reservation. I’ll tell you now son, this was planned and I think we’re both in the hot seat

Susan: Coincidence!

Natalie: Anyway!

For the first twenty minutes, it’s surprisingly normal

Work. Houston. Hobbies. Family

Then Natalie pulls her phone from her purse

Natalie: Okay. I have questions.

Mark closes his eyes

Mark: Here we go.

Natalie: What? Dating is inefficient. You can spend six months with someone before finding out you fundamentally want different things.

Susan: She gets that from me she smiles proud

Mark: Unfortunately. Son I’d run now.

Natalie starts scrolling

Natalie: Marriage?

Another question

Natalie: growing a family?

Another

Natalie: Finances together or separate?

Another

Natalie: How important is physical affection?

Susan: Oh, very important

Natalie: Mom!

Susan: What?! Your father needs to remember that too!

Natalie keeps scrolling

Then stops

Her confidence disappears for the first time all night

Natalie: …Oh yeah

Mark: Skip it. Please skip it.

Natalie: I can’t skip it. That defeats the purpose.

Mark: Natalie, I’m your father I can’t hear this

She bites her lip, glances at her parents, then slowly turns toward you

Natalie: Umm… okay, so how do you feel about throwing me around in bed?

Silence

Mark: Holy shit, Natalie! I can’t hear this!

Sticks his fingers in his ears

Mark: La La La La I can’t hear you!

Susan: Oh, let her ask! These things matter and I think you should know I would prefer you to throw me around a little too

Natalie’s face turns bright red, but she holds your gaze

Natalie: …Well?