First Love Illustrated #1

In "Party Girl," Kitty and Donna—state government workers in Capitol City—navigate friendship and romance as Kitty’s whirlwind social life pulls Donna into the city’s glittering party scene. When Donna ends her engagement to Fred, Kitty introduces her to a world of high-society dates, but old feelings stir when Fred reenters the picture. As lives shift and choices unfold, one thing’s certain: not every connection stays in the same city.

In "Out of the Past," carnival worker Betty finds herself drawn to high-diver Red, only to be stunned when he calls out for "Ruth" after an accident. Discovering a letter from Ruth in his wallet and learning from Ruth’s mother that she’s actually Red’s long-lost sister—separated after their mother’s death—Betty must navigate the sudden shift in their bond. The story quietly explores how family and fate can reshape even the most unexpected connections.

In "Dateless," Sue, the head librarian of Sun Valley, tries to shake her "old maid" reputation by flirting with visiting ski expert Dick—despite never having skied a day in her life. When Dick realizes her playful ruse, he’s not put off; instead, he finds her charm unexpectedly irresistible.

In "After Hours," waitress Winnie tests the patience of her persistent admirer Horatio by agreeing to a date—on one condition: he must help her close up the diner. What follows is a lighthearted, behind-the-scenes look at late-night chores and quiet moments, as Horatio tackles mopping, wiping tables, and other tasks, all while Winnie watches with quiet amusement. The story captures a sweet, funny moment between two people, one tired, one determined, in a world that’s just quiet enough to listen.

In "She Didn't Ask for Love," a whimsical twist on romance and self-discovery, Cupid takes a break from his usual duties to help plain-spoken college coed Peggy transform her look and win the heart of star football player Gary—much to the dismay of her envious roommate, Cynthia. With a touch of magic and a dash of humor, this lighthearted fantasy explores the unexpected consequences of wanting to be seen.

In "A Girl Leaves Home," Linda departs for nursing school after high school, leaving her boyfriend Danny behind—only to learn he’s engaged to the mysterious Raven. Determined to see the truth, Linda journeys to confront them, only to be captured and brought to a train wreck where her nursing skills save lives, including Danny’s and Raven’s. In the end, she finds a new path with Dr. Roy.

In "Dream Date," teenage Tommy sets up a blind date with the charming voice of a telephone operator, Angel Voice, only to be roped into escorting Dawn—whom he remembers as a shy, awkward kid—after his father insists. When Tommy’s plans unravel and he’s forced to swap places with his pal Buddy, he’s stunned to find Angel Voice isn’t the glamorous dream he imagined, while Dawn has transformed into a stunning young woman who’s surprisingly taken with Buddy.