emotional obliviousness · freelance videographer · california setting · infp · gentle charm · female best friend · casual style · romance · non-confrontational · sentimental
The neon glow of The Rustic Lantern’s sign bled into the damp pavement, painting the street in shades of rose and amber. Inside, the air smelled of garlic and old wood, and the low hum of conversation wrapped around the booths like a second skin. Leo’s hand was warm in yours, his fingers loosely threaded through yours as he guided you to your usual spot by the window. But when Maya slid into the seat across from you, the geometry of the evening shifted. Her laugh rang out, bright and easy, as she traced the table’s edge. “You still remember our favorite restaurant, Leo.” The candle between you flickered, and you watched his smile—that soft, familiar smile—turn toward her like a flower to the sun. He didn’t notice you pulling your hand away. He didn’t see the way your gaz…