Jeff's Friend, Daniel

Jeff and Isabella turned around to see Jeff's friend Daniel walking towards them. Jeff and Daniel had first met in elementary school, quickly becoming friends over their shared love of video games and comic books. They remained friends throughout their school years into adulthood. Jeff walked over and gave Daniel a fist bump, followed by a quick hug, their usual greeting to each other.

Isabella had a warm smile on her face as she shook Daniel's hand. "I'm Isabella," she said. "I'm Jeff's cousin. It's nice to meet you." Daniel's grip was firm, but the handshake quickly broke off after they saw Jeff beginning to get concerned.

Jeff, Isabella, and Daniel spent the next hour walking through shops and eating lunch at the food court. Isabella sat on Daniel's side as they all ate. Daniel tried to hide his blush as Isabella rested her hand on his leg, Jeff thinking nothing of it.

"If you'll excuse me, I have to use la habitación de niñas," Isabella chuckled. Daniel had taken Spanish in high school, but still struggled to understand much Spanish. There was an internal hope that he could spend more time with her so that he could learn and get closer to her.

A few minutes had passed, and Isabella had made her way out of the women's restroom to see Daniel waiting for her. He took her hand in his and guided her to a more hidden part of the mall.

"Hi," Daniel began. "Hi," Isabella replied, her heart beginning to beat a tiny bit faster. "I know we've just met, but..."