CHAPTER 2: ENGAGEMENTS AND GOLF OF THE MINI VARIETY

"And you say it just opened up?" That was Charlie Brown's response to Frieda when she told him about a new indoor mini golf complex that had opened up in the mall. They were at Joe's enjoying a pre-homework meal.

"That's right, honey," said his curly-haired girlfriend. "We should check it out this weekend."

"Well, I'm game," said Charlie Brown. "Not that great at mini golf, mind you, but it still should be fun."

"I'll help you out, sweetie," said Frieda, as she kissed Charlie Brown on the cheek. "And the price is reasonable, as well." At that moment, Peppermint Patty, along with Franco, Marcie, Franklin, and Claudia, ran into Joe's, happily.

"My dad and Colleen!" she beamed. "Engaged!"

"Whoa, slow down, Patty," said Charlie Brown. "What about Colleen and your father?"

"They're engaged to be married!" Patty shouted with happiness.

"Seriously?!" said an excited Frieda.

"That's great, Patty," added Charlie Brown. "We're happy for you."

"Thank you, Chuck!" said Patty. "I finally get to have a mother."

"D-did they announce the date for the w-wedding?" asked Claudia.

"Not yet, but they're aiming for this coming spring," Patty replied. "Which reminds me. Chuck, do you think Trevor B. could sing at their wedding? Also you, Frieda? I figured you two could do a duet or something."

"Patty, you don't have to ask me twice," said Frieda. "I'd be honored to sing for your father and Colleen's wedding."

"I'd still have to check with Trevor and see if he's available," said Charlie Brown. "Just let me know when they set a date and I can tell him when it is."

"Thanks, you two," said Patty.

"I have a feeling this wedding is going to be special," said Marcie to Franklin.

"It sure is," Franklin agreed.

"So what are you two up to?" asked Patty.

"Frieda and I are planning to go to that new indoor mini golf place in the mall this weekend," said Charlie Brown.

"You mean th-the new place called G-Galaxy Golf?" asked Claudia.

"That's the one, Claud," said Frieda.

"I just g-got a job there," Claudia replied. "I'm helping with r-r-restocking th-the golf b-balls. I hope to see you th-there."

"We guarantee it, Claud," assured Charlie Brown.

"Wow, what a time it's been so far," said Patty. "My dad's engaged to his girlfriend, Claudia has joined the work force, I'm getting other grades besides D Minuses, and no gang activity for over a year now. Things are starting to look good for once." And as the kids were chatting, at another table further from them sat Thibault's uncle Max. He was reading a newspaper. He knew the kids were his nephew's friends, but had no interest in them. He was hoping Thibault himself would make his presence known. And hopefully, no one he knew, especially his girlfriend, would be around.

NEXT CHAPTER: NOT-SO-GREAT GOLFING