TROY
so how's school going?

BELLA
ok.

TROY
is there anything different at the new school than you expected?

BELLA
there's a lot more drama and romance than was at {old school}.

TROY
romance?

BELLA
yeah. so carrie was dating brian but then brian cheated on her with danielle and then ...

TROY
cheated?

BELLA
yeah, cheated. so then mr. johnson said there would be no more talk of dating during class.

TROY
thank goodness for mr. johnson.

BELLA
yeah.

TROY
so what would you say to a boy who asked you to be his girlfriend that you didn't want to date?

BELLA (thinking)
i'd say, thank you for asking me to be your girlfriend but i don't find you attractive so wouldn't want to do that.

TROY (not entirely suppressing my laughter)
ok. honesty is good, but it can also be a little damaging in sensitive situations, especially to a young and vulnerable guy.

BELLA
well, so do i have to date them?

TROY
no of course not. but there are other things you can say.

BELLA
like what?

TROY
like, thank you but i'm not really looking for that kind of relationship right now.

BELLA
oh, that's good dad.

TROY
yes it is. you know where i came up with that?

BELLA
no, where?

TROY
i was told that a lot by a lot of young winsome ladies like yourself before i met your mom.

BELLA
hah. funny.

TROY
or at your age you could tell people that i can't date because my father won't let me.

BELLA
oh, that's good too. how long can i use that?

TROY
i'd love if you did until you were thirty-two.