h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Over the next couple of months, Mel made herself concentrate on her job and made some progress. However, she often thought of Andy and Jess. She also thought of Wendy and George Sissons but she found that the desire for revenge had waned. One evening, Andy phoned.
“It's Jess's seventh birthday in three weeks time and I'd like to organise a party.”
“Yes, Jess deserves a party.”
“I know it's a cheek but I wondered if you could help. I don't think I can manage to entertain ten little girls for a couple of hours on my own.”
Mel smiled. “I think I owe you, Andy. You stopped me trying to kidnap George. I realise now I would have been in real trouble.”
“Thanks. It'll be on a Saturday. It would be good if you could come round a couple of hours earlier.”
“Are you doing food?”
“Sandwiches and a bought cake.”
“OK. I'll be glad to help.”
To Mel's surprise, she looked forward to the party. She had enjoyed little contact with children since the afternoon when she'd caught George dashing outside the school. Even if the party proved to be a lot of work, it would cheer up her rather drab life. She arrived at Andy's house in good time and found a bouncy castle in the garden. When he opened the door, she ref lected how attractive his smile was. His kitchen was full of bread, cheese, potted meat, small tomatoes and fruit drinks.
Jess came running in and, to Mel's delight, gave her a hug. When Mel set to work making sandwiches, Jess helped her Dad ornament the living room with paper stars.
Shortly before three, the little girls started arriving in their pretty dresses. The party started with pass the parcel and guessing games, then spilled out into the garden for fun on the bouncy castle. Mel was kept busy making sure all the girls were occupied and nobody got hurt or upset. When the party was over and the last guest had left, Mel and Andy sat on the settee together.
“Well, I think that was a great success. Thank you, Mel” said Andy.