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Rain sheeted through the sky in heavy torrents, drenching the world, and the storm showed no sigs of letting up. Lightening zigzagged in crooked electric branches, zapping lightening rods, sparks showering, and frightening everyone who chanced glances upwards. Thunder, lightning's grumpy companion, rumbled like a hungry old man. Rather than becoming soaked to the bone, Melvin and Richie drove to the cafe though it was two blocks from their building, and they lucked out, finding an empty space in the parking garage next door.

"The whole world's getting pissed on today," Richie said as they climbed out of the car. The parking garage echoed with the sound of pattering rain on cement. Melvin nodded. Saying anything seemed like too much of an effort; his entire body felt submerged under water, every movement slow and heavy.

"You're a man of many words," Richie said with his sly grin, and Melvin only shrugged in reply. They made their way to the cafe.

A cute young waitress shot them a sweet smile as they entered and led them to a table near the back corner. She had long brown hair, tied in pigtails, making her look even younger than her years. Her dark brown eyes glowed in the reflection of the hanging lights.

"Excuse me, miss. Is Courtney working today?" Melvin asked her as he sat down. Richie's ears pricked. He wanted to hear this.

"Oh, you know Court? Actually, she called in sick today. Good day to call in, too. Not going to get too much business with all hell breaking loose outside," the waitress said, glancing towards the windows. The glass seemed to be sweating water on the other side; layers of it slid down the windows and puddled on the sidewalk. Melvin's face dropped. If Courtney was sick, he could forget about their date tonight.@@