The restaurant stood quietly beneath the glow of warm lights, its glass windows reflecting the movement of the city like a distant river of color. Yna Reyes slowed her steps as she approached, instincts already alert. She scanned the entrance, the valet stand, the shadows along the sidewalk.Then she saw him.Gabriel Valesquez stood just outside the doors, posture relaxed yet unmistakably composed. He wasn’t checking his phone. He wasn’t pacing. He was waiting.When his gaze met hers, something shifted subtle, restrained.“Ms. Reyes,” he said, straightening slightly. “Thank you for coming.”“You were confident I would,” Yna replied.“I was hopeful,” he corrected.Before she could respond, Gabriel reached to his side and lifted a small bouquet. White lilies, softened by pale blush roses elegant, understated, intentional.“These are for you.”Yna paused.“For someone who observes more than he speaks,” she said slowly, “you make a bold first gesture.”“Courtesy isn’t bold,” Gabriel repli
Last Updated : 2025-12-18 Read more