"I will also start with an easy question," Xavier said. He almost smiled when he saw Elena heave a sigh of relief. "What's your favorite food?"
"Eh?" Elena batted her eyes when she heard his question. It was totally unexpected. She thought he would ask a slightly embarrassing question (because he said he would start with an easy one - so not too embarrassing) or at least something personal. However, Xavier instead asked her a simple question that was so easy to answer.
Elena pondered and then replied to his question, "Hmm... I like mussels."
Xavier thought it was quite interesting and he wanted to know the reason. "Why mussels?"
Elena's expression turned slightly sad. "My mother loved mussels and she often cooked them. Whenever I see mussels, I will always remember her. They taste good too."
"How do you like it cooked?" Xavier asked again.
"Anything actually," Elena replied. "Steamed, stewed, fried... mussels always taste good."
