As I twirled, however, I saw DeMarcos standing by the bar watching me. He didn't seem to mind that I saw him staring, as if he didn't realize how creepy it was to do that—or maybe he did know.

After a few more songs, I returned to my table with my friends, who couldn't wait to tell me what I already knew.

"He's coming over here!" Bernice said in an excited whisper.

I looked up at him as he reached our table.

"Can I talk to you?" It was only half a ...