"Awwwww, fiiiine," Connor drawled, pouting playfully at her when she forbade strangling, going so far as to bat his eyes at her in jest. He returned her smile automatically, equally as warmly. Yes, he liked her, like he'd sort of said to Marla.
"Good to meet you too, Marla. I'll catch you later," he said, settling back in his chair again as she got up to leave.
"She really is," he agreed. "I'm glad you brought me here to listen to her." He nursed his cool coffee as they leaned back to enjoy at least part of another set before leaving.