A Date To Remember

Birkin drew in a deep breath, hesitating before placing his foot over the restaurant's threshold. Clenching his fists tightly, a surge of anxiety bubbled beneath his mind.

His nerves had been building relentlessly ever since he left the comfort of his home, making this solo dinner feel far from an everyday-okay meal. It wasn't just any dinner for him; it was a romantically-themed evening where most patrons would be accompanied by a significant other or a special someone. Attending romantic dinners like these commonly involves individuals enjoying their preferred companionship, whether romantically or platonic; they have someone with them. At least that's the norm that everyone generally believes in, he silently mused to himself, casting a glance over his own shoulder and finding no partner in arm to be seen. His nerves were beyond overwhelming.

As he handed his car keys to the valet, he attempted to shake off the nervous energy that has been clinging on to him the moment he got out of his car. He couldn't believe that he was truly alone this time, and with no way to back out, a dry gulp echoed down in his itchy throat. Drawing another deep breath, he steeled himself in and stepped through the grand entrance doors, graciously held open by the door greeters standing outside, smiling at him.

The moment he stepped in, he was welcomed by an exquisite scent that reeks of casual luxury. Different from the typical day-to-day eateries, this place lacked the usual savory of the typical Western aroma of roasted chicken or grilled steak that wafts through the air. Yet, it carried a refreshing and impeccably neat scent that embraced all of his senses with warmth.

It felt akin to being cradled by a gentle breeze, a clean and subtly floral essence encouraging a desire to nestle into a cozy haven. Birkin's attentive gaze wandered around, absorbing every nuance adorning the restaurant. The walls were decorated with tasteful contemporary artwork, arranged with finesse reminiscent of a museum, which immediately caught his attention. "Nice," he remarked silently. His appreciation for art shone through, as he found the place to be tastefully filled with creative touches that resonated deeply with his artistic sensibilities.

Before him, a lavish display of decor was presented, with each table adorned by a flickering candle casting a warm glow. Above it, a shiny chandelier illuminated the surroundings, with its delicate dangling pieces glimmering in the light. The air was filled with the comforting strains of smooth jazz, wrapping around him like a magnetic embrace, enchanting his ears with a captivating allure of the strings. "Woah, romance is definitely in the air tonight," his heart whispered. Although it might linger in the air particles around him, it remained elusive, refusing to encircle him.

Not today, Birkin. Not today.

"Good evening, sir. May I have your name, please?" He was immediately greeted by the hostess as he approached the front desk of the restaurant, wanting to check on his solo-dining reservation.

"Aston, Birkin," he responded with a brief reply, sporting a friendly smile that concealed the anxiousness threatening to appear.

"Khun Birkin Kristopher Aston?" He nodded in acknowledgment of his mouthful name. "Wonderful, it's a pleasure to have you here with us, sir. Right this way, please," the hostess guided him to the designated table that was originally reserved for two.

Birkin approached a table positioned in front of another, where a man can be seen sitting with his back turned towards him. Taking the opposite seat of his table, their backs now are against each other, in a subtle arrangement that added an intriguing touch amongst these two strangers.

"Good evening, Khun Aston. May I present to you the menu for tonight's Valentine's special?" A waiter approached his table with a menu in hand. "Before you begin ordering, may I interest you with a glass of wine?" He extended a hefty wine book.