"No, It's short for Ezekiel. Nice to meet you Natalie."

"Uh, it's Natalia, actually... Heh... I was born on Christmas day and my parents got all weird," she wiggled her hands in the air, "and decided to name me after the day I was born... Hah... Everybody thinks it's Natalie at first!" Nat smiled back at him and continued, "So, anyhow, Ezekiel? Like the prophet? What a cool name. Were your parents very religious?"

She was used to interacting with regular folk, and she was always friendly with people who looked older than herself. The facade was second nature, and her suspicion of this man was ebbing away.The diner reminded her of her high school days, and it comforted her.

Natalia watched as Ezekiel removed his trench coat, bunched it up very methodically, and set it on the space beside him. It was well-made, and the leather was thick. Her paranoia ratcheted up a bit... What if it's made to protect him? From bites n' what not? she thought. She reminded herself once again that she shouldn't judge people. He's probably an ex-goth or something.

"So what brings you to New York?"

"Oh, I live here!" she said, brightening up, "I've lived here all my life... I live " - She paused for a moment, debating whether or not to tell him of her residence - "in the West Village..." - no need for excessive details.

"How about you?" She took in the appearance of the man. His dress seemed rather formal, but fashionable at the same time. His hair was so long - it must have taken eons to grow out. "Oh, and sorry to be such an oddball, but I love your hair! It's unreal!" She tried her best not to seem like she came from the beat generation, but some slang slipped out now and again.

Carol came out with the two coffees, sugar, and cream. She set it down and said, "If ya need anything, lemme know!"