conundrum (first part)

approach

"'Hey, pretty? Do you know me? Because I do,' he said with a cheeky smile. Bolu instantly liked his way of talking – that effortless charm that made some people unforgettable. She'd initially thought him to be just another guy from the area, but his posh yet rugged tone surprised her. It was refreshing to hear someone speak with such confidence and warmth.

"'I don't know you. Where do you know me from?' she asked, intrigued. He leaned in slightly, his eyes sparkling with amusement. 'To be honest, I've seen you around. You always fill gas near my place, and I love the way you walk – confident, no-nonsense. And, girl, you always frown.' Bolu chuckled, 'Really? I never knew I always frown.'

"'Trust me, I'm not the only one who thinks so,' he said with a wink. 'I had to give myself a pep talk before coming over. I think beneath that tough exterior, there's a softie.' Bolu laughed, 'Oh my goodness!' She couldn't help but be charmed by his forwardness and playful demeanor.

"'I'm not that bad,' she protested, trying to defend herself. He dragged out the word, 'You are that baaad.' Bolu giggled, her first impression of him crumbling. He sounded learned, a gentleman – a far cry from her initial judgment. She was starting to enjoy the banter, feeling a spark of connection she hadn't experienced in a while.

"As she looked at him properly, she noticed his boyish handsomeness. His features were endearing, and his smile was infectious. She was about to ask his age but caught herself – too forward for a first meeting. Instead, she asked, 'So, what do you do?' She was curious to know more about this charming stranger who seemed to have broken through her defenses with ease. Bolu leaned in slightly, eager to hear his response, her curiosity piqued.