Ishana: Why would we go on a date… as if we're lovers?
Mom: No, you guys aren't lovers… You're a couple!
Abhi: (clears throat) Hmm… we're getting late. So, we're leaving now, Aunty.
Mom: Okay, enjoy yourselves!
Abhi: Okay, Aunty.
(We headed outside toward the driveway. I walked to my car, ready to unlock it, but I saw Ishana walking toward her own car. I stopped in my tracks, confused.)
Abhi: (thinking) Wait… is she going to drive? I thought we were taking my car.
Abhi: Hey… I thought we were going together?
Ishana: Oh? I assumed we were going separately…
Abhi: Why would we go separately? We're heading to the same place.
Ishana: Hmm, fair point. Okay, let's go in your car then.
Abhi: Cool. (I walked over and opened the passenger-side door for her.)
Ishana: (thinking) Why is he opening the passenger door?
Do you… want me to drive?
Abhi: No!
Ishana: Then why are you opening the passenger door?
Abhi: Isn't that what a gentleman should do? Open the car door for the lady?
Ishana: Umm… (thinking) This feels weird. No one's ever done this for me before...
(She walked around to the driver's side and opened the door.)
Abhi: (thinking) Why is she going to the driver's side now? Didn't she hear me? She's opened the door, but… she's not getting in?
Abhi: What are you doing?
Ishana: Why should only men show respect? You opened the door for me, so it's my responsibility to return the gesture. I'll open the door for you too.
Abhi: (a little surprised) I've never seen a woman do that before…
(thinking) This is kind of weird. But sweet…
Alright then, come over to this side and sit. I'll switch.
Ishana: Okay.
(She walked over and got into the passenger seat. I gently closed the door behind her, then walked around to the driver's side and got in.)
Abhi: (thinking) She's cute… That's why I like her so much. She's honestly the most amazing girl I've ever met.
(I started the engine, but noticed she hadn't put on her seatbelt yet. I paused, sensing the perfect opportunity. I leaned over slightly toward her.)
Abhi: You forgot something.
Ishana: Huh?