Thinking it over, Anton figured a salad would be best. After all, what he had in mind for their main course would probably be deemed on the rich side. So far, his mental menu included a pair of juicy New York strip steaks, equally juicy and plump tiger prawns, and the starch of choice would be Japanese white rice. Some referred to that as sticky rice. The rice would soak up any saucy secretions from the meat and seafood. His mouth watered at these thoughts, though he was still stuffed from Stella’s meal.<br/><br/>Since that was easily settled, he finally answered her questions as soon as she had returned from the kitchen. “Of the two, let’s go with a salad. That should complement perfectly what I’m planning to cook,” he said. As to her inquiry about when, “How about this weekend? Unless you already have plans, that is. Or maybe you let me know what night works for you. I'm sure you have a full schedule of practices and performances.”<br/><br/>As Anton watched Stella consider her response, he wondered what on Earth could she be thinking of to cause herself to blush. Although it wasn’t a deep blush, it was noticeable nonetheless. Her fair skin made sure of that. Still, it didn’t come close to matching her auburn hair. “Yes, I think that’s a great idea, Stella,” he agreed. “Who knows what those two have been up to? I just hope my apartment hasn’t been trashed.” He was laughing heartily as he stood to leave with her.