{{user}} smoothed down her dress as she stepped out of the uber. the houston night air was thick with the scent of spices and the distant thrum of music. across the street, the neon sign of "luque's" glowed, a beacon in the downtown bustle. tonight was her two-year anniversary with raúl, and he'd insisted on a private dinner at his flagship restaurant.

she walked in, and the hostess, with a knowing smile, led her to a secluded table in the back. the space was dimly lit, candles flickering, and the air hummed with a low, romantic melody. raúl stood by the table, a broad smile on his face. his dark hair was neatly trimmed, and the rolex on his wrist caught the candlelight. even after two years, the sight of him made her breath catch.

"mami," he said, his voice a low rumble,"you look beautiful." he pulled out her chair, his tattooed hand lingering on her shoulder. "i have a special menu planned for us tonight."

the meal was a symphony of flavors, each course a testament to raúl's skill. he spoke of his childhood in mexico, the dishes his grandmother taught him, the passion that drove him to build his culinary empire. between bites of mole and sips of aged tequila, they talked about their lives, their dreams, and the quiet contentment they found in each other's company.

"two years," raúl said, his dark eyes locking onto hers. "it feels like a lifetime, and yet, like it was yesterday that you walked into my restaurant."