Aborted Romance

Button Mash strolled along the hall, looking at the different booths that had been set up. “Wow! It’s the new version of Grand Theft Wagon!” he exclaimed, checking out a recent video game release.

But, fun though it was, this video game convention was making him tired and hungry. He decided to check out Grand Theft Wagon 4 after he’d had a snack, a drink, and a sit down. He soon found a refreshments stand.

“One slice of chocolate cake please,” he stated, standing at the counter.

Mrs Cake gave him a generous helping to go with his milkshake.

He awkwardly carried his tray around the dining area, looking for a free table, but there was none.

A friendly-looking girl with lemon yellow and lime green hair pulled her headphones off and gestured towards him. “Hey, this seat’s free!” she said, patting the seat next to her.

Button gulped. With long, flowing hair and soft pink skin, she was beautiful. He nervously approached her, the cutlery on his table rattling as his hands shook.

“Great convention, eh?” she said as he sat down beside her.

“Y-Yeah…” he agreed.

“So, seen anything you like?”

He had now. Oh yes, he had. “Ummm… yeah… some g-good g-g-games.”

The girl smiled and extended her hand. “I’m Lemon Zest by the way.”

“B-Button M-Mash,” Button said, shaking her hand. “Ooh! Strawberry sauce!” he exclaimed, spotting a bottle of red sauce.

“Errr…” Lemon tried to stop him, but it was too late — Button had poured chilli sauce all over his cake.

Button dug his fork into his cake. “Nothing goes better with chocolate than a nice berry sauce, don’t you think?” he asked.

As the prongs of the fork passed his lips, he could tell something was wrong. The sauce felt almost warm against his mouth. As he chewed the mouthful, his tongue began to burn.

He wanted to spit it out. But… the girl. She was so beautiful, and seemed really interested in him. He’d look a fool in front of her. He kept chewing. He swallowed.

“So,” he said, "are you enjoying it here?” He took a quick slurp of milkshake which did a little to relieve the fire in his mouth.

She eyed him curiously. Was he really eating chocolate cake with chilli sauce?! “Ummm… yeah, it’s great.”

Button looked at the cake. He couldn't stop eating it now. He'd look ridiculous. He lowered his fork and scooped up another bite.