***
For good luck Anna put on the same dress she had worn the night before. She added only a new hat. At noon she arrived, finding Nikolas dosing in his chair, a contented smile on his lips. At first she didn't know what to make of it. She struggled with her feelings. Her initial reaction was to leave and forget this man. But at the same time, Anna's erotic temperament rose as she stood there gazing at him, unsure of what to do next. He appeared even more handsome asleep. Her young heart suddenly filled with true agape, leaving no room for any negative thought. Love and compassion engulfed her. He looked so vulnerable Anna thought as her heart compelled her to stay. She decided to follow the call of her instincts.
Having decided to stay, Anna took off her hat and set it on the table quietly. She watched Nikolas's chest rise and drop in even breaths. Noticing the soft, exotic feathers on her hat, an idea came to her. She plucked one and reaching across the small table, tickled Nikolas's nose gently. Nikolas brought his hand to his face, as if to chase away a fly. Opening his eyes, he caught Anna's hand and held it tightly. He was happy to see Anna's smile. Somewhat bewildered and a little embarrassed, he managed to mumble: "Good afternoon." To which she replied in a low voice:
"And good afternoon to you too. I do hope I am not interrupting."
Freeing her hand, he stood up.
"I am sorry ... I am ... please forgive me, Miss … " Nikolas said, straightening himself out.
"My name is Anna," she replied. "Anna Bouras."
"Bouras, Bouras," he searched his mind. "I met someone else last night with the same name."
"Oh yes. That's my mother."
"I am Nikolas ... Nikolas Theophilos," continued the young man awkwardly, remembering the events of the previous evening. "I am glad to meet you, Anna," he added in a somewhat startled voice.
"Are you sure, Nikolas?" asked Anna, eyeing him closely.
"Yes, Anna, I am," he said, extending a strong hand. "Let's now try this the correct way, shall we?"
"All right, the correct way," Anna said very faintly.
After shaking hands formally, the two sat down. Nikolas took the red rose from the table and handed it to her. "For you, Anna," he said, bringing his body closer to her.
"Why, thank you, Nikolas, it's very thoughtful of you." She slowly raised the flower to her nose, savoring its fragrance, gently brushing the blossom against her lips. Nikolas was delighted with her response.
Anna looked straight into his dark brown eyes, a bit shaken. Then she quickly pulled her eyes away and refocused on the calm, idle ocean. The table was filled with a peaceful silence until Nikolas reached forward and gave her a soft touch on the cheek. Anna quickly responded by resting her face snugly in his hand.