It was not the atmosphere Id imagined Alexanders best friendmuch less a vampirepreferring. But perhaps I rushed to judge him, as so many of the students at Dullsville High judged me.
Well, theres one right there, I said, pointing across the street to Javalicious.
Sebastian perked up. Lets grab some coffee.
All right, Alexander said.
Great, I thought. Here I was hanging out with two hotties from the Underworld, and we were going to sit in a mundane coffee shop?
And well sip it by the tombstones, Sebastian suggested as if reading my mind.
Happy and giddy, I linked arms with Alexander, and the three of us headed for the shop.
I tried to pay for two jumbo-size caramel mochas with whipped cream and one hot chocolate, but Alexander insisted on treating us. He beamed like I hadnt seen before, basking in the company of his two best friends.
An elderly couple sharing a pot of tea seemed preoccupied by our presence.
Dude, did you see her checking me out? Sebastian teased as Alexander dropped a few dollars in the tip jar.
The woman rose and made her way toward us.
I think she heard you, my boyfriend said, taking his hot chocolate.
I do like older women, Sebastian whispered, but this one is using a walker.
The woman slowly approached Alexander, who towered over her. The demure lady had two circles of soft blush on her powder-white skin. Alexander politely stepped aside, assuming she was going to order.
She was quick to grab his hand. Are you the Sterling who lives in the Mansion on Benson Hill? she asked.
The two baristas ceased brewing and the entire shop of coffee klatches eagerly listened.
Alexander looked as if he wasnt sure how to respond. No one in town had ever talked to him before. Even though the elderly woman wasnt threatening, we were still uncertain of her motives.
Uhyes, he finally replied.
We have a Sterling painting hanging in our home. I bought it at the art auction last month. We were told it was by an up-and-coming Romanian artist. Is the artist a relative of yours?
Yes, a very distant one Sebastian interjected before Alexander had a chance to speak.
I was surprised by Sebastians remark, especially since it wasnt true.
Are you kidding? I asked. Alexander was too humble to speak up. Alexanders the artist, I announced proudly.
My boyfriend glared at me and shook his head.
But you are so young, the woman complimented. It couldnt be you.
It is! I said, glowing. Isnt he wonderful?
My husband would love to meet you, she said, referring to the older gentleman seated at her table. If you have a moment
UhI appreciate that Alexander began politely.
Perhaps another time, Sebastian interjected again. We really should be going.
Like a savvy media handler, Sebastian whisked us away from the woman before she could ask any more probing questions.
See, I told you Alexander attracts the ladies, Sebastian lamented. If only she were sixty years younger.