[how does one explain what had been the issue with her and James?] I'd say a mix of nervous and introvert. I was a little forward so it made him nervous. ["a little forward" sure is one way of putting it.] Some men just can't handle a woman that knows what she wants, I guess. Unless they're you. [as if showcasing how forward she can be.

Maria was always trying to keep herself playful. part of it was natural, certainly, and part of it was simply because it was all she knew how to do. she had not been certain that after the train, she would be able to get back into that. but Vander, who had been so friendly while he had just arrived, made it much easier. when this date was done, she was sure she would go home and that sadness would overtake her again but for right now? she was with Vander and that didn't feel like a threat at the moment.

the kiss makes her smile even though she isn't sure he can see it. it's been a while for Maria to be shown this kind of affection. there certainly was a lot of baggage and she knew neither of them wanted to carry it right now.] That's dangerous. What if I call you because I got lonely and it's the middle of the night? Or I saw a spider. Either can be an emergency.