Fair Agreement

"By the way, people here call me Dr. Minerva Haynes. I don't go by the name of Cassandra anymore."

"I see."

He's been keeping his replies short because he didn't want her to realize how much he was trying to hold back from being drawn to her. He immediately excused himself to go out the balcony and smoke for a while. The tension had been taking a toll on him, so he just needed to release some of it as he took in some fresh air. He stopped by the restroom as well before he finally returned to their table. He sat across her without glancing her way. They were served with some appetizers, so they just took their time to eat them. When he glanced her way, she was also minding her own business. This time, he was careful not to stare too long. When they were both done, he began to speak up.

"As I said earlier, I have something important to say."

She paused and looked at him curiously.