Teasing

"You don't have to eat if they're not to your liking," he apologetically uttered after realizing he must have gone nuts inviting her over.

"They're actually delicious; I can't believe if my tastebuds are playing with me or you are genuinely a good cook," Nicole noticed his mood became somewhat awkward, so she answered her praises in a sassy manner. And it worked. Mike felt elated.

"Really?" Mike beamed. He was sure her comment was sincere. It would have been more doubtful if she said it is a common way others would express their compliments. Hearing her say it in her natural manner, he was convinced it was a sincere comment, so they started to eat.

"How can I return this meal?" Nicole asked as they started to keep the tableware.

"Well, we would normally help to do the dishes when we dine in someone else's house, but you don't have to do it. I am sure you don't know how to do those things," Mike answered with a smile. He wasn't provoking or teasing her