He took her hand in his, looked at her then spoke in a very sincere tone. “I never thought that someone as delightful as you would respond to my online ad …. ever. I wish that…” He struggled secretly with his words as he repeated mentally.....“She’s no different than any of the others.”

 

He didn’t smile or show any facial expression while he spoke then he turned away to avoid seeing the smile upon her face. His abrupt movement made her think he may have found her to be repulsive at first, but then she thought that he appeared to be looking for approval of what he said from someone nearby, but she soon brushed this off as his way of coping with being nervous.

 

Maria smiled and held his hand in return. “No need to be nervous Felipe. I’m not going to bite you.” She spoke softly to him. Felipe looked at her quickly staring silently as a smile formed upon her face. Felipe slowly looked away from her and she giggled. “I did scare you! I’m sorry. I have a wicked sense of humor.”

 

“On the contrary, you didn’t scare me at all.” He said looking at her as she giggled. “In fact, I’m afraid that I might bite you.”

 

Maria raised a curious eyebrow. “Oh? Really?” She knew he was teasing.

 

“I vant to suck your blood!” Felipe said imitating the Bela Lugosi version of Dracula. He even leaned forward and raised his hands mocking a creepy vampire for added effect as he spoke.

 

Maria couldn’t help giggling. “You’re very good! Your accent is perfect for that part. I love it! I’m a bit of a vampire myself though. I just might bite YOU.” She leaned over and kissed his neck quickly, giggling as she sat straight again.

 

Felipe hadn’t expected that and was shocked. He looked away immediately. “Just like the others…she’s just like the others.. she’s no different.” He chanted repetitively in his mind.