The Basement - 11
Calvin could feel it the entire ride home. His parents could see it. It filled the car with its presence. Valerie Freedman could tell instantly, even without tapping into his thoughts. It was written all over his face in that silly little grin he tried to hide but couldn't. He wore it with equal portions pride and embarrassment, at times wanting to let it fade but holding onto it as long as he could as they made their way home. The ride took about twenty minutes, depending on traffic, through stereotypical suburban America neighborhoods. A small bistro or bookstore dotted the residential landscape here and there; hidden gems that Calvin and his friends liked to walk or ride to on a nice weekend day for a cup of coffee, tea, or to browse for a new book or comic for their collections. It all passed quickly for him, though, as he was still focused on that last interaction with the girl of his dreams, Eva. He did, however, notice the small strip mall a few blocks from his hous