Carlos sat on a bench near the children's playground, the afternoon sun filtering through the leafy trees above. Laughter and the squeals of children filled the air, but Carlos wasn't paying attention to any of that. His gaze was fixed on a young woman strolling along the winding park path.

Marissa, dressed casually in athletic leggings and a tank top, was enjoying her peaceful walk. Her earbuds were in, and music was playing softly as she admired the bright colors of the playground and the carefree joy of the kids. She barely noticed Carlos at first, but he certainly noticed her.

"Hey, gorgeous!" Carlos called out, his voice carrying across the playground.

Marissa kept walking, pretending she hadn't heard him.

"Come on, don't ignore me like that!" Carlos said louder, getting up from the bench and starting to follow her.

Marissa felt her stomach tighten with irritation. She'd hoped he would give up, but instead, he was persistent. She glanced over her shoulder, seeing him closing the distance.

Carlos grinned, mistaking her glance for encouragement. "You're too pretty to be walking alone. Why don't you let me keep you company?"

Marissa stopped abruptly near the edge of the playground, her patience running out. She turned to face Carlos, pulling her earbuds out. A couple of parents sitting nearby glanced curiously in their direction.

"Listen, Carlos, right?" she said sharply.

Carlos froze, surprised by her directness. "Uh, yeah..."

"I don't know you, and I don't want to know you," Marissa said, her voice calm but firm. "I ignored you because I'm not interested. Following me and shouting across the park isn't charming. It's creepy and disrespectful."