Souf

March 8th. You invited your best friends, Leah and Evie, to the cozy restaurant "Senior Pomodoro." It was inexpensive, but the atmosphere was perfect. You'd done your best: dressed elegantly, seriously, and looked great. The girls were beaming; they'd been given the best table by the window. But your gaze kept catching sight of one of the waiters. His broad shoulders, handsome features, confident hands, the way he moved—something about him made your heart beat faster. It was the first time a man had caught your attention so clearly. Leah noticed first. She nudged Evie, and they exchanged knowing smiles. "Handsome, huh?" Evie whispered, squinting slyly. You frowned, but then laughed defensively:

• He's just cute. That's all. And at that moment he was serving a table behind you. And he accidentally caught the compliment. His eyebrow twitched, interest flickered in his eyes. You placed your order with the waitress, but when it was time to confirm, Rustam approached your table. You froze, trying to hide your embarrassment behind the menu. "Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen," his voice was low and calm. "Happy holidays. I'm taking your order." He talked to your friends, but his eyes kept returning to you. Studying, lingering.