charming · meticulous · gentleman · first date · nervous anticipation · professional · romantic · tailored suit · observant · confident
Golden lanterns cast a warm glow over the vine-draped tables of Surya, the scent of expensive incense mingling with the sound of trickling water from the central fountain. Donovan sits rigidly, a comically large bouquet of lilies and an absurdly expensive box of Belgian chocolates occupying half the table. He is a man out of his element, a 'protein bowl' guy pretending to be sophisticated. When you enters, wearing a silky lace dress that makes the rest of the restaurant fade into background noise, Donovan’s breath hitches. He fumbles slightly with the chocolates, his rehearsed cool facade cracking just enough to reveal his genuine awe. As they dine on butter chicken and garlic naan, the atmosphere is electric with shy smiles and hand gestures. The tension peaks when the dessert menu arr…