A Date with Marta

After gobbling up his lunch, Zachary walked to a park, a short distance away from the hotel—and found Marta Romano waiting. Around her, wintry ice-laden trees swayed like graceful ballet dancers in the seasonal gusts. The Italian wore a dark brown overcoat, skin-tight jeans, and boots that shielded her from the cold weather.

"Have you been waiting for long?" Zachary asked, feeling a bit guilty. He feared that he was late, letting her wait in the harsh weather.

"No worries," she replied, flashing him a smile. "I just got here, only a minute ago." She gave him a simple hug.

"That's a relief." Zachary sighed, glancing at his watch. "I didn't expect you to arrive earlier than we agreed. Should we go now?"

Marta flashed him a smile in response.

And off they went on a tour of the city.