"Lisa, I would really love for you to come to this event with me.  I want you to be able to learn about my heritage and see why it is so much a part of me. Can I look forward to your attending as my guest?" Gary inquired seriously. His strange way of phrasing things ever present almost made Lisa laugh, but she had enough presence of mind to stifle herself, allowing only a smile to escape as she gladly accepted. He told her that he had another four tickets available for the evening that would be at her disposal if she wanted them, so she should feel free to invite whomever she wished.  They talked on a while longer while they shared a dessert that was so sinfully delicious that it took a fine cup of tea to counter the richness. Before they turned around, three hours had passed, and Gary dutifully brought Lisa back home.

Lisa asked Gary to come over to her house for a barbeque that she was having the next day with some friends. Gary was pleased to come and accepted, but warned her that following that for the next couple of weeks he would be extremely busy with the Creole dinner that he might not get to see her much during that time.