Casey knew Damien reasonably well- their sisters were excellent friends, and both of them knew the feeling of a telephone that seemed permanently out of reach. However, Casey and Damien were extreme opposites, a fact that had become apparent at Casey’s sister’s fifth birthday party. A delicious chocolate cake was served to the kids, who eagerly crowded around, as if those who were closest to the cake were given the largest slice. Casey and Damien were sitting next to each other, party hats and costumes (Damien was dressed, predictably, as a golfer, while Casey was a secret agent) and were given their slices. While Casey savoured her chocolate delicacy, Damien scoffed his in five six-year old bites. Ever in charge, Casey scolded him strongly, wagging her little finger at him like a reproving parent.

“Damien, you shouldn’t eat it like that. Eat it like me.” Again, she took a small bite of cake and savoured it appreciating every morsel. Damien turned to her, his little face a picture of bemusement.

“Why?” With that philosophical statement, he returned to the business of eating food, not relishing it.   

From that time on, Casey and Damien had never seemed to take the same perspective on anything. They both tried out for the primary school tee ball team- Casey acquired the exciting job of team pitcher, while Damien opted for the quieter task of left field. Damien, true to form, later took up Chess and Golf, while Casey, a hefty, blonde-headed girl, started taking dance lessons. They also found themselves on opposing sides at school- Damien had a talent for playing the devil’s advocate whenever a discussion arose about pretty much anything, and Casey fell for it every time. More than once, the teacher had to prevent an all-out debate (in good spirit) falling out between the two- Casey’s sharp wit and ability for free-flowing debate was constantly pitted against Damien’s steady logical mind and surprising flair for oratory.

Even when they bumped into each other (thanks to their sisters’ constant social commitments) they succeeded to nearly every time to find something they disagreed about- usually it started with Damien complaining about an active schedule, or Casey’s exuberance about a particular occasion, and Casey telling him to lighten up.

Although they were forever teasing and arguing with each other, they were not natural enemies. Unless Casey’s temper got the better of her, or Damien's love for arguments got the better of him, their debates were taken in good spirit, and it was to be admitted that Damien could take a lot of teasing from his classmates.

One of their core reasons for debate was that Damien was extremely reserved and despised displaying any sign of emotions or passions. On the other hand, Casey lived with her heart on her sleeve- excitement and anticipation at every page. Damien tended to use his head, and rely on the law, while Casey was free flowing and original. This potent combination had lead to heated disagreements, and now this.

Despite his alleged distaste for displaying excitement, Damien was clearly riveted by this book. With his guard down, he had unwittingly allowed Casey to see a more human and light-hearted side of him, and Casey was determined to milk it for all it was worth.

For a full five minutes Damien read, his eyes glued to the page, while Casey glorified in every moment, waiting for the right time to spring her trap. Just as Damien was about to turn the page, Casey judged that the moment was right.

“So Damien, what brings you here?” She queried, a smirk spreading over her broad face.