Anna laughed as she told me stories about her pets and I smiled back at her eager look. It was refreshing to be with someone who had no agenda and was open and honest. “Bongo sounds like a handful.” I cleared my throat and coughed after I spoke. “I’m sorry.” She cleared her throat, nervously. “I didn’t mean to bore you.” “You’re not boring me.” I took her hand and squeezed it. “In fact, I appreciate you spending the evening with me.” “You’re easy to talk to. Like Eddie was.” She looked up at me with wide, innocent eyes. “He was a cool guy. You know, he always used to call me the prettiest tutor in the world.” “You really miss Eddie, don’t you?” “No one ever called me pretty before.” She stared at her fingers, blushing. “Not that I expect it or anything. I know I’m a bit of a plain Jane.” “But you’re gorgeous.”
