Fatal Flaws

The aroma wafting from the food court is intense, the stench of greasy fattening foods. Mixed with a sickly sweet smell coming from the Sugar Shack. I haven't eaten mall food in ages, it's never been my favorite. The scent reminds me of the stands they open at the fair. But unlike here, I enjoy the taste of theirs. Despite their shabby exterior, most of their food is excellent. One thing they have in common though is the prices. The food may be good, but not for what they charge. It's outrageous. Considering my limited funds I'll have to go cheap, getting something small. I think to myself, ignoring the loud growl erupting from my stomach.

I shouldn't have let him pick, choosing a small shop towards the back of the food court called "Fried Heaven". Of course, he would choose somewhere that only offers fried food. It's a heart attack waiting to happen. Looking over the menu nothing is under five dollars, not even the french fries. The price of food should be a crime, especially, since adding healthy foods is ten times more expensive. Then they have the nerve to complain about Americans being obese. Our world is backward.

"Get whatever you want. It's on me, my treat," he offers, walking closer to read the menu. I wonder if he senses my hesitation or wants to appear polite. Either way, I'm going cheap. I'm not taking advantage of him, he didn't have to offer. An oversized man with a balding head approaches to take our order. Wearing a stained white t-shirt beneath a black apron. I assume the white gunk smeared across it is from the batter they use.

"Um, I'll take a corndog with a side of onion rings and a large lemonade, please," I tell him, stepping back. Hayden orders the same but opts for fries instead. After ordering we make our way to the seating area. It's average looking with red booths in some spots. Others have red metal chairs surrounding square tables. A black metal fence surrounds most of the dining area separating it from the busy mall. The only complaint I have is the noise. Everything seems magnified. The loud voices, laughter, and other noises echo throughout the confined space. We decide on a booth rather than the chairs. Sliding into the seat he places the plastic number on the edge of the table, in clear view of the workers. We're number three hopefully, our food arrives quickly.

"So, any plans for Christmas yet?" he asks, fidgeting with the sign. I hadn't given it much thought. Unfortunately, I have to go home and visit my mom at some point. I'm not looking forward to it. She hasn't called me since giving me her request, and I refuse to give in first. I'd also like to see Sky, it's been a while since I've seen her. The last time was when she was released from the hospital. Her mom brought her over to gather some of her things. We didn't talk much, it was more of a hi-bye situation. They were in a rush to get to physical therapy. Since then we've only texted a handful of times.

"Not really" I'm interrupted by the worker bringing out our food. It looks delicious, considering it's fast food. The corn dog is golden brown and perfectly crisp on the outside. My onion rings are larger than normal and also fried just right. I watch him squeeze a small amount of ketchup onto his plate, dipping a fry into it. Rather than eating it, he offers it to me while swiping an onion ring from my plate. I can't help but laugh when we're together. He can be so silly, and fun versus his dark angry side. I've seen both, preferring this one.

"Hey, funny seeing you here, together. I didn't expect that" Sam's annoying voice cuts through me. She approaches the table, loaded down with shopping bags. A familiar-looking guy and another girl bring up the rear, following her. Both are also carrying several large bags. It must be nice having money to spend on all those things. Peering past Sam I study the couple behind her. I've never seen the girl before. She's pretty with short blonde hair tucked behind her ears. Her free hand interlocks with the guy standing beside her. I've seen him before, but I can't place it. Perhaps, we've met before at a frat party or bonfire. Hayden doesn't appear thrilled to see them either. Not looking up he continues munching on his food, barely paying them attention.