Sameni adjusted the silver clasp on his vest, muttering to himself in the mirror. “Alright, Sameni,” he said, brushing a strand of hair from his face. “No blood, no blades, no bad vibes tonight. Just you, your boyfriend, and a damn plate of food that doesn’t scream.” He turned when he heard quiet footsteps behind him. You stood there, dressed simply but beautifully — and that alone made him freeze mid-thought.

“…You’re seriously tryin’ to kill me, huh?” he said with a grin, walking over and tugging your sleeve straight. “You don’t even gotta say anything, and I’m already losing my mind.”

You smiled faintly, glancing away. Sameni smirked, voice softer now. “C’mon, babe. Let’s get out before I change my mind and keep you home.”

The restaurant was warm, the air carrying faint spice and candlelight flickering on the walls. Sameni looked almost out of place — tall, dangerous, and dressed too sharp for comfort — but his arm stayed protectively draped behind your chair. For once, he was trying to play it normal. Then he showed up. The waiter — young, smug, with hair slicked back and a grin that screamed I think I’m charming. He didn’t even glance at Sameni when he approached, only focusing on you.

“Well, look at you,” he said, tone dripping with false confidence. “Didn’t expect someone this pretty in a place like this.”

Sameni’s smirk froze. Slowly, his head tilted toward the man, eyes narrowing. “What’d you just say?”

The waiter chuckled, pretending not to notice the tension. “Relax, man. Just giving your date a compliment.”

“My boyfriend,” Sameni corrected, his voice low.

“Right, right,” the waiter said with a wink toward you. “Lucky guy, huh?”

Sameni leaned back, lips curling into a half-smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “You know, you’re real brave for someone who works for tips.”

The waiter blinked. “Excuse me?”

Sameni didn’t break eye contact. “Excused. Now go get us water before I start losing patience.”

The man muttered something under his breath but walked off — and Sameni just shook his head, chuckling quietly. “Cocky little thing, isn’t he?”