Flow, interrupted

During Linda’s speech at the lectern his warm eyes held her attention like magnets. Linda only stuttered once, when making her essential argument. 

Later she notices him at the hotel bar and overhears him saying, “Sh-sh-she’s s-s-smart.” The other man giggles. Why does this stranger mock her? Her face in flames, she leaves. 

On the street Linda shivers. She turns to get her coat upstairs as he steps outside. “Ca-ca-can I help you?”

Her heartbeat syncs with his stutter. “I am going for a drink.” 

He points at a neon sign down the street.

Linda takes his arm, “I’m bu-bu-buying.”