The dreamscape twisted and I was now in a festive banquet hall after a wedding. My mother beamed from across the crowded room.

“I got you a date.â€? She smiled.

I wanted to ask her why she had taken it upon herself to get me a date as if I was some pitiful loser, but she walked away before I could ask her.

I guess in reality I had been a bit of a loser ever since the moment I had realized that there were some ills red roses and wine could not cure—ever since the incident.

Jennifer, smiled bashfully. I wondered if she was the daughter of one of my mom’s friends or business associates. My mom was always trying to set me up with someone. I always objected on principle.

I figured if they had to be set up with me, they probably weren’t worth the trouble. I felt a fool at this point, as this girl was obviously a gem. She had brown hair and sparkling blue eyes—a tender combination. I was immediately endeared to her, as I had never been to anyone before—well maybe someone. Remembering Victoria, I sighed.