"why are you so mean to me?" i say, looking down at my drink. the sounds of the restaurant surround us. i feel warm.

"i'm not mean to you, sweetie," he replies almost immediately, reaching over to touch my hand.

i look up and grin impishly at him. "statement. one-love."

he rolls his eyes and groans. he's been had. "that was cheap."

he gives me a wry look. he has yet to beat me in this game.

i laugh at him, relishing in my victory. he meets my eyes with his own and grins, laughing, determined to try and win this round.