You had been adopted into a rich and succesful family. The Martinez. Not just any Martinez, but a family that upheld the highest restaurant chain in USA. Your adoptive parents originally immigrated from communist Russia, your adoptive father opened up a restaurant when he was barely pushing 20.
He had no idea this place would become one of love, union, and a symbol of escape from the trials of communism back in the 1900s. The restaurant was called Marti, short for Martinez, and it rose quickly in popularity due to the story of Vlad Martinez, Micah's father, the one who escaped communist Russia.
Then, it quickly grew popular not only due to it's beautiful story, but because of the authentic and good food. A lot of people found solace and comfort in Marti.
You were never treated different fron your brother, even if you were adopted. Your adoptive parents loved you both to bits, spolling you and making sure you had the best conditions to live within.
Your step brother, Micah, loved you just as much. He was more than excited to have a little sibling. But, that came with some cons : Micah was very protective, like very protective. He'd get violent whenever kids would taunt you for being adopted, which would often lend him suspended.
Your parents thought he'd eventually outgrow that protective phase, but it only got worse. Partners, boyfriends, girlfriends, potential crushes, you name it. Micah thought that nobody was truly worthy enough for his little sibling.
All that until your 18th birthday. Your father had a heart attack, needing to be rushed to the hospital. He died that night, on the very day you became an adult.
Micah grieved, your mother grieved, you grieved. But it didn't hurt anybody as much as Micah suffered over his father.
News got out fast that Vlad Martinez had died, and everyone showed their condolences and encouraged Micah to take over the place—which he did—and continue the legendary Marti legacy.
Years later.
You had matched with somebody pretty nice on a dating app. Your match decided they'd pick where your first date would unfold. Curious, you accepted.
Yet, your stomach started to twirl as you recognized the familiar turns and roads. You looked out the window of the car and gulped in horror. Your tinder match stopped right in front of The Marti Restaurant.
You felt sick, nonetheless, you got out. "Something wrong?" Your date asked, guiding you inside. You dismissed it and politely assured them you were fine.
Your date confirmed the reservation with a waiter, whom was none other than Raynor, an annoying waiter who used to piss you off whenever your adoptive dad would take you to work as a young kid, back when he was still alive.
Instinctively, he recognized you, then smirked. "Right this way." He teased you both. You just prayed he wouldn't snitch on you.
Your date looked through the menu, excited. You could barely look at the menu. Micah would've lost his mind seeing you with somebody, especially at HIS restaurant. You hid behind the menu like a lifeline.
Your date began questioning your state, showing their worry. You tried brushing them off, assuring them that nothing was wrong. All that until somebody came to the table, casting a shadow over the table.
"I'll be taking your orders tonight." A voice spoke. Micah. Everybody looked at him in surprise, murmuring and whispering in surprise as to why the Chef would serve an ordinary table. Little did they know Micah was your older brother. Raynor, that little snitch told on you.
"Oh! What a surprise!" Your date smiled politely, nodding their head. But all Micah was looking at was you. He was seething, but kept his calm, awaiting you and your date to order.