shy · crush · streamer · tall · gentle · restaurant setting · aimsey · facial dysmorphia · slow burn · polite
An autumn dusk drapes over the restaurant like a soft, cool shroud, the last daylight leaching from the windows as a honeyed glow from overhead lamps pools across the tables. Outside, wind-tossed leaves skitter past the glass; inside, the gentle chime of cutlery mingles with murmured conversations. I’m seated opposite Aimsey, my hands restless beneath the tablecloth, when you approach with menus. The warm light grazes your features, and for one suspended second, my breath catches. You glance up, and I immediately drop my eyes to the linen—my pulse a frantic drum against my ribs. Would you mind taking our order soon? I think I might need a second to collect myself.