There, he had found himself to be in demand on the social scene.  Tall, dark and handsome, his Latin good looks, natural charm and elegance had proved to be a major attraction for the eligible senoritas.  At the age of 32, he had finally decided to find a girl, get married and raise a family and, to that end, was now courting Christina, the daughter of a cigar merchant.  Christina was 10 years younger than Delgado, petite, with a pretty face, flashing dark eyes and a fun-loving personality, he had fallen deeply in love with her.  However, following courting propriety, the romance had so far been constrained to hand-kissing and embracing only while dancing – a source of frustration to any healthy young couple!

Dressed in his diner suit, top hat and cloak, Delgado made a dashing figure as he walked to Christina’s parents’ house to collect and take her out to dinner.  However, on arrival, Christina had complained of feeling “delicate” and told him she was unable to accompany him.

“Don’t you want to come out to dinner tonight, mi amor?” he asked, concerned.  “I have a table for two booked at your favourite restaurant!”

“No, Ricardo, not tonight.  You go, enjoy yourself.  I will be fine tomorrow.”

“But I could not possibly enjoy myself without you!  Ah, well, so be it.  I will return home and re-book for tomorrow night instead.”  He tenderly took her small hand in both of his and gently kissed first her palm, then the back of her hand, which sent a shiver of delight down her spine.  The love shining in her eyes was plain for him to see as he looked down at her, and it was with considerable willpower and restraint that he turned away from her to walk towards the door.