Slice O' Life XI: Don't Grow Up Too Fast
short fiction by emma giammanco
Writer’s Statement: I was inspired to write this piece after my dad left. It resembles what I would have liked our relationship to be.
I’m Flora Amelie Reid. I’m my father’s pride and joy. I don’t remember much of my mom. I looked in the mirror, smoothing down my peach-colored bodycon dress. Trevor walked up and knocked on the door. I glanced around for a minute before telling him it was okay to come in.
“Ready?” He asked.
“Almost Papa!” I smiled.
After I finished braiding my hair and fixing my makeup I looked to my dad who I could tell was upset. I’m all he has and I’m going on my first date. I made sure Lilah knew he was gonna be home alone so she could come to spend some time with him.
“You look beautiful bug.” Trevor smiled.
“Thank you, Papa.” I replied, looking up at my father.
“God. You’re growing up too fast.” He laughed.
“Papa, I will always be your little girl.” I spoke.
“I know bug. I love you so much.” Trevor whispered.
“I love you too Papa. Now come on, I don’t wanna be late.” I giggled.
We walked out to his car and I climbed in, buckling up. I looked out the window, a nervous sigh escaping my lips. Trevor looked at me and he sent me a reassuring look.
“It’s gonna be okay bug.” He smiled.
“You think?” I asked.
“I know so.” He spoke.
That made me feel better, I calmed down as I watched out the window. I think I was ready now. Once we got there I looked around before looking at my dad.
“If you need to come home at any point call me, if you feel uncomfortable call me. Text me once in a while so I know you’re okay.” He stated.
“I will Papa, I promise.” I replied, smiling.
I got out of the car and watched as my father drove off. I fiddled with my fingers nervously before I walked into the restaurant. He had a reservation for us.
“It’s under Williams.” I spoke, my voice quiet.
“The other is already here.” The hostess smiled.
The hostess led me to the table, I smiled a little when I sat down across from him. Leo Mark Williams. My dad did a background check on him, I mean I don’t blame him. I’m all he has left, he can’t lose me to some creep.
“Woah, you look...dashing.” Leo spoke.
“O-Oh thank you!” I smiled, my cheeks flushing red.
“I can’t believe I have a chance with you.” Leo spoke.
“Neither can my father. He said you’re lucky he let me come.” I giggled.
“Tell your father I said thank you.” Leo replied.
“I will.” I spoke.
The night went great until he brought me home. A week later I messaged him and he didn’t answer. That went on for weeks, he ghosted me and my father wasn’t happy. I was crying quietly in my room and my father sat down beside me.
“He’s not worth it.” He whispered.
“I know Papa, I just wanted to be grown.” I mumbled.
“Don’t.” He said.
About the Author
Emma Giammanco (she/they) is a 16-year-old junior in high school from Pennsylvania.