Lino clasped her hand in both of his and shook it before letting go. For some reason, he pictured her to be taller, though he didn't mind having to look down at her. At least she was pretty. He didn't know what he would do if the woman had been ugly. "It is a pleasure to meet you and yes...we need to talk," he said slowly, trying not to stumble over the words. So far so good, though he didn't know how he would do once their conversation turned to more complicated matters.
He smiled awkwardly and went to the door, holding it open for her. "After you." Following after her, he let the door shut behind him and sighed in relief. After working at Rayoné for two years, it felt more like home to him than his apartment did. He knew every corner in the restaurant and his nerves eased once he was inside.
"Welcome to Ray--oné?" The hostess said, her cheerful greeting ending in a confused tone. Lino blushed, not meeting the woman's eyes. He'd be hearing about this later, for sure. Lino never brought woman to the restaurant on dates and he had yet to mention Abigail to anyone. It didn't matter, anyway, since he had given his two weeks notice the day before. No one at Rayoné knew that, either.
"A table for two," he requested quietly. At the hostess's nod, Lino placed his hand on the small of Abigail's back to lead her toward the table. "I...I hope this is okay?" he asked Abigail, holding out her chair for her. "I know the comi--food is good here." He winced at his slip and sat down across from her.