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“If you'll be around long, you can check back in a week or so," I smiled. "Perhaps management will make a change."
His eyes narrowed, and I adjusted my handbag on my shoulder. Did I say something wrong?
“It's quite strange you're as relaxed as you are," he said, and I frowned. "People aren't usually relaxed around vampires, tamed or not, especially humans.”
I pulled a face while contemplating his words. He was right, but I didn't see the need to immediately expect the worse from him because of his species. That would be judging a book by its cover, which caused the wars between the supernatural and humans centuries ago.
I saw a man and nothing more. Not a dangerous beast. We were all capable of evil.
“I only see a man trying to get food, and what's wrong with that?” I replied with a shrug. “I mean, if that food isn’t kicking and screaming, of course.”
The words were out of my mouth before I could stop them and my eyes widened. I chuckled awkwardly to play off my insensitive remark and felt the urge to pinch myself.
What the hell did I just say?
"That was an insensitive joke. I apologize,” I mumbled with an awkward smile and looked past him.
It was about time I got going. I had dinner reservations, and I was about to make a fool of myself.
Too late, Marian!
To my surprise, he started laughing. The sound was so gentle it was shocking. I didn't think it was possible, but he looked even more beautiful, smiling. Was he using some trick for me to be this attracted to him?
I heard some vampires could do that.
“Very true,” he laughed. “No need to be sorry, you’re very right, but I have no interest in kicking or screaming food.”
It was my turn to arch a curious brow, as I nodded. "Well then, I should get going."
I wasn't sure if I should say that's great or not, so it was best I said nothing.
"Of course," he replied, and I walked away.
It took everything in me not to look back. It had been quite some time since a man made my heartbeat this fast. For a second there, I wasn't sure how to act. His eyes were so penetrating.
I walked to my car and got in before adjusting my mirror. I peeked at the supermarket's entrance, but he’d vanished.
Dusk was quickly turning into night, and I sat in the car for a minute, replaying the odd interaction I had just had. I placed a hand over my heart and smiled. It had been far too long since I'd felt even remotely attracted to someone, and it felt… great.
***
A few minutes before my reservation, I entered the restaurant and was shown to my table. When I sat down, I closed my eyes while taking a breath. There was a soothing melody playing from hidden speakers, and I allowed it to calm me.
I had to park a block away and speed-walk the rest of the way to the restaurant.
When I opened my eyes and took a sip of my water, I looked around at everyone present. The restaurant was packed with cars lining the street as the first indication.
My table would have certainly been taken if I was late.
This restaurant was trendy hence it being so packed, but after a long day, this wouldn't usually be my go-to spot for eating out. After a long day, I preferred to go to a less crowded space but not tonight.
Staring from table to table, I watched the other diners. I observed their smiles, watchful gazes and absorbed their laughter, and for a second, I was in Mexico again. For tonight I preferred this compared to eating at home alone.
“Hey, Marian, are you ready to order?”
I hadn’t noticed that a waitress and witch I knew had approached my table.
I nodded. “Hey, Ginna, yes, I am,” I answered and quickly browsed the menu.
