[@BlackPanther]

She didn't know if it was because of the way she said it or because of their exchange being so short, but Nejmah could tell there was sadness in Abel's stunning blue eyes. She instantly bit her lip nervously, afraid that she had done something to make him feel bad. But this feeling was short-lived, because after seemingly trying to gather up the courage to say something to her, Abel said he wanted to buy the books for her.

"Oh no, that's really not necessary," Nejmah said, taking the book from his hand. "Thank you so much for the offer anyway."

Abel pulled out a sharpie from his pocket and wrote his number under the tattoo of his name. His gentle touch was a contrast to his strong , and it sent tingles down Nejmah's body in a way no other man had before. [i]"I'd...id really like to see you again. So, here's my cell."[/i] Abel told her with another slightly embarrassed and nervous smile.

Nejmah's face turned scarlet again, and the words that came out of her mouth were said in an impulsive rush and out of dying curiosity to get to know the man better. "Actually, today is my day off and I have no plans, so if you're available maybe we can do something later?"

[i]'Oh dear... Did I really just basically ask a guy out on a date?!'[/i] she thought, instantly embarrassed, panicking and unable to look him in the eyes. There was nothing more she wanted at the moment than to have the earth open up and swallow her. Where was the proud, bordering on snobby Nejmah that was too important for anyone? [i]'Way to go, Nejmah Athaliah... Your stupid move is probably making you seem easy and desperate.[/i]