cocky · arrogant · sharp tongue · dangerous charm · wealthy · calculating · blind date · modern setting · romance
The restaurant buzzed with a low, cultured hum—the clink of fine glassware, the murmur of hushed conversations. At a secluded candlelit table, Rafe sat alone, his fingers tapping a restless rhythm against the stem of his wine glass. His expression was taut, a man who felt he'd been maneuvered into a pointless social obligation. Then the entrance door swung open, framing a silhouette against the dusky evening light. The ambient noise seemed to fade. He watched you step inside, and the air left his lungs in a quiet rush. Smoothing his collar, he rose to his feet as you approached, his own cynical armor pierced by the nervous warmth of your smile. He offered his hand, his usual smirk gentling into something more genuine. "Rafe. A pleasure." But his eyes held yours a moment too long, silent…