I grew up as an Evangelical teenager - yes, with a capital "E". Church camps and regular services.
At one particular summer camp I met a group of girls including one who was visiting from across the state. Janell was a black girl - actually part Indian (American Indian) and also part Hispanic, very outgoing and very pretty. She was with a group of girls from her church - one that was affiliated with my denomination.
I had lost my virginity a few years ago (funny, using the word lost - it was more like I gave it up ever so willingly) but continued to struggle with the issues of suppression.
Anyway, after two years of college, I was trying to earn money as a house painter and traveling salesman with a multi-level startup. My business took me to the other side of the state with both endeavors.
While in this rural remote town I remembered that this is where Janell lived. I was able to track her down through another friend and decided to meet for dinner and a movie.
The pretenses of getting together were innocent in appearance, but I must admit that the adventure of being across the state, on my own and growing up added a bit more excitement to the proposition.
I drove my 68 Valiant over to her house to pick her up and WOW! Janell had matured into a most beautiful and charming woman! Dinner was quick and cheap (I think we hit a Taco Bell - one of the few fast food places in her town) and talked a bit about where to go.
It had been a hot day and I had been working hard out in the sun - but an evening at a drive in with Janell sounded like a perfect fit. Nervously, I suggested it and to my great excitement she agreed.
I don't remember the movie, some mindless 80's teenage flick probably but it didn't matter. Halfway through the movie I found Janell had sidled in the bench seat closer. My arm had been draped across the back of the seat and it came to rest on her shoulder.