With some difficulty, Marco squeezed out a half-hearted smile. It has been a while since he did so, this facial expression has almost become unknown to him. Hearing Raluca's encouraging words, he immediately brightened up.
The bar was busy as usual, Marco had to push his way through a few patrons whilst apologising in a volume that only he could hear. He finally reached Raluca's table and sat down.
Marco did not know what to say. For a moment, the two sat in what seemed silence to Marco although the tavern was drowned in drunken slurs and laughter. It has been a while since he had seen Raluca in person. Her recent ordeal had little impact on her beauty. Her skin tone is still remarkably healthy, those deep, blue eyes complemented her perfect complexion and unique sense of fashion.
Just as Marco thought of breaking the awkwardness with a compliment and opened his mouth,
"So -"
"I -"
Raluca spoke just as Marco did. The pair chuckled.
"Sorry, ladies first."
"It's alright, you can go first."
Marco smiled again, this time more heartfelt than the last, as though the warmth emanating from Raluca's fiery soul is already melting the icy barrier within his mental fortress. He began again,
"So, Ral, tell me about that near death experience of yours sweetheart."
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