Carlos smiled at Crystal. “Do you like talking to me?” he asked.

Crystal shrugged, took a sip of wine, and looked around. “Where’s your girlfriend?”

“She’ll probably be late,” Carlos replied.

“You know how she is. She likes to make a dramatic entrance. Anyway, did you hear my question? You should know that I’m breaking up with Joyce. She’s too needy. Do you know what I mean?”

Crystal was a bit shocked by what Carlos said, but she didn’t let it show. “That’s not ...