The "Bomb" Miguel Drops

Miguel's hand is surprisingly rough, like it has gone through some bit of hard work. And to Claire, it feels so warm it's almost as if it's burning. "Sorry," she mutters, as she politely withdraws her hand. She's not a total prude or anything, but she's thoroughly confused right now. She doesn't even know what to say or feel. Everything's so overwhelming.

"I really like you, Claire," Miguel repeats, gazing at her so intently that Claire's compelled to look away. "I would even say I love you, but you won't believe that. We've practically just met a few days ago. Of course, love should only arise after you've been with a person for a fair amount of time, after you've gone through experiences, created memories you'll cherish for a lifetime. We don't yet have that, but I promise you, we will."

Is this real, Claire thinks. Am I right here, right now, and is this truly happening? "Miguel, I can't…But what about Karen?"

"What about her?"

"Aren't you two together?"