Lucia poured herself a glass of cocktail, delicately holding it with two slender fingers. She gracefully stepped around the bar and approached Shire, leaning against the table with natural charm tinged with seduction. With a smile, she raised her glass slightly towards Shire, "Colonel, does your offer to cover all expenses include my drink as well?"
"Of course!" Shire replied.
The surrounding officers burst into cheers. Major Fernan lightly patted Shire on the shoulder, leaned in, and whispered in Shire's ear, "You're in luck, Colonel. Many have tried to buy Lucia a drink, but none have succeeded!"
Shire merely smiled faintly without saying anything.
The officers tactfully made way for Shire and Lucia to have a corner to themselves. Lucia confidently sat down before Shire.
Then she suddenly noticed a look of alertness in Shire's eyes. His hand was even resting on the revolver at his waist.
"You don't seem to welcome me?" Lucia asked, puzzled.
