The exercise:
Let's go with: the bargain.
T'was a beautiful fall day here, so Kat and I went for a bike ride this morning that was highly enjoyable. In the afternoon I helped Kat's parents pick apples while she made cookies and then roasted a chicken for dinner. I'd say that was a pretty good bargain.
Mine:
As soon as he laid eyes on his father, Jason knew he'd made a huge mistake. While he berated himself in teeth-grinding silence, they came together for a brief, awkward hug before returning to a more comfortable distance.
"Boy, I'm really looking forward to this dinner," his dad said. "I hear they do an absolutely amazing prime rib here."
"The best in the city," Jason replied without enthusiasm. "Probably in America, for that matter."
"And you're sure you can afford it? I don't want you to bankrupt yourself just to treat your old man to a nice meal on his birthday."
"Don't worry about it. Work is going well and, more importantly, you're worth it. So just enjoy yourself tonight, okay?"
"Damned right I'm worth it!" Jason's father laughed too loudly and slapped his son on the shoulder. Jason bit his tongue and managed to keep his reply within the confines of his skull.
