GETTING TO KNOW EDDIE

Her daughter had another weird boyfriend, but Harriet decided to give him a chance

- GINNY SWART

CHILL OUT FICTION

'EVERY one of Marita's boyfriends is worse than the last” Harriet sighed.

“You brought home a few frogs in your time" her mom said, smiling.

“Did I? But this new boy of hers – Eddie! He's completely unsuitable. His hairstyle. His clothes. His acne. He's already left school and apparently does odd-job painting for a living” "How old is he?"

“Nineteen, I think. And Marita's only 17, Mom. She says his green hair is “just so cool.

“Hmm. And do you remember Roddie Venter? The boy you went to the Matric dance with?"

“Who, Roddie? Oh, yes. Well, he's an insurance agent these days.”

Her mom was silent. “Roddie was a nice boy, Harriet replied. “You liked him, Mom, you said so at the time." "Once I'd got past the hyena giggle and the scruffy T-shirts ... Yes, I grew to like him."

"Mom, are you trying to tell me something?"

"I'm just hinting that you could trust Marita's judgment a little, and find a few good points yourself. Get to know him. Give the boy a chance.”

THE following day Eddie arrived before Marita returned from school.

"She'll be back soon” Harriet said. "Have some tea” "Cool. Thanks Eddie followed her into the kitchen.

"Hey, Mrs Du Toit, great colour scheme.” he said abruptly. “The caramel shades with the chocolate trim work well."

This wasn't a topic she'd expected. "Thanks. I like it too."

“Very warm and serene. It's just how a room should be.”

“So you're interested in, um, paint?"

"Interior design. I'm going to art college next year.“