Fred was in a trance for a moment.

The sun was blinding. Shirley lifted her wrist and checked the time. "I'm going back to the bar if there's nothing else."

"I can take you, if you don't mind." Fred blurted out almost unconsciously.

"No, I'll just take the subway back." Fred subconsciously invited and Shirley subconsciously declined.

"But..." When Fred was about to say more, Shirley said, "Well, Mr. Fred, it's really getting late. I'm going home."

"Wait a minute!” Fred called to her. "Well... Thank you so much for yesterday. Sorry for the trouble."

"Never mind. That what I should do." Shirley gently pursed her lips. "That’s basic customer...