Now that's better. Owen thought. He reached out for Lucy's hand across the bar counter. "We can take it slow."
Lucy nodded slowly affirmatively. "Yes, let's do it slow."
Owen mimicked her movement and they end up laughing at the silliness. The laughter took time to subside but Owen still refused to let go of Lucy's hand.
"By the way, you know it never crossed my mind that we'll end up talking to each other this way. I hated your guts." Lucy had to wipe the corner of her eyes with her only free hand so they could stay connected.
"Why? I'm very likable." Owen answered with obviously exaggerated confidence that earned another head-shaking laughter from Lucy.
"I wouldn't even know you can joke like this."
"It's just… I think I only have the confidence to show this side of me to you." Owen became suddenly somber with a smile that did not reach his eyes. "I hope you can be patient with me."
