Foxed

I was going to New York.
I hate going to the city but Mom was determined to go and she dragged me with her. And one more reason she made as a reason to Tito is that I was going to meet someone.
Putting off meeting Seth was fine by me. Heck, I even dreaded meeting him.
So we drove to Foxwood Casino to get to the Grayhound bus there. We were a bit early so I sat at the lounge and took out my pocketbook I've brought with me. But mom said we need to change chairs so that we could see when the bus comes. So we sat at the opposite from where we originally sat. I choose the end seat and put the bags beside the vacant seat beside me. Mom said she needs to buy a drink because she needs to take her sleeping pills. Nodding, I keep on reading. A little later I notice this man standing in front or f me. Then he was looking at me. My freak antenna went up but I just gave him a smile.
He was a tall Chinese guy. Langky. And maybe twice my age.
Then he started a conversation with me. And out of politeness I pick up the conversation. Then mom came back. I introduced my mom. Mom said hi and sat two chairs away from me.
Still continuing the conversation the man took one of line of chairs pendicular to mine and sat facing me. Then he started asking me questions. First he was fishing for my age. Then asked us about where we are heading. I answered New York. He said that was great since he was heading there himself.
I felt a chill went up my spine.
But he said he's going to take the later bus.
And I broke out a genuine smile hearing that.
Until he took a chair and placed it beside me.
Mom's gazed narrowed on him. Oblivoius to her, the man picked up the conversation again. And during this conversation he touched my arms twice, borrowed my book and examined it, and fingered the bracelet I was wearing.
Then when he asked me where I live, I answered him that I'm just visiting. He was surprised. He said that I have a good grasp of the English language.
Yeah, more than I could say for his.
Then he asked me if I want to stay here in the U.S. permanently. I said that I can't because I only have a tourist status. To my unprecedented shock, he gripped my right upper arms and shook me.
"I can help you!", he said eagerly.
"Er... No thank you..." I dumbly answered. And we both know the fastest way to get a Green card is through marriage. To whom... to him?
Ewww.
Then the damn bus was late for half an hour. I was stuck with the guy. Mom was thinking of calling out to the guard. When the bus came rolling in, it was like the most beautiful thing I've seen. Mom quickly grabbed our bags and called me to follow her.
I readily obeyed. I said goodbye and pulled my stroller along.
The man stood up too and walked me to the doors.
"Hey, maybe next time you could show me Mohegan Sun." he said, refering to the other casino.
"Sure" And I gave him a sunny smile.
Then I said in Tagalog.
"Hope springs eternal."