It was mid-afternoon, and I'd just finished a long lecture at university. Being a senior, the stress was enough; the heat only made it worse. All I wanted was a cold drink, so I went into a nearby café, hoping for a few minutes of peace and quiet.

I ordered my drink, but when I politely asked why it was taking so long, the café manager responded in a condescending and humiliating manner in front of the other customers. He commented on my casual outfit (comfortable university clothes) and spoke sarcastically, telling me I should be patient "like everyone else," without showing any respect. This left me feeling deeply offended and publicly humiliated. I left the café immediately without getting my order.

When I got home, my husband, Riftan, immediately noticed something was wrong. He asked me what had happened, and when I told him, his expression was cool. He didn't raise his voice. He didn't even seem angry. Riftan was the CEO of one of the largest hospitality companies in the city.

By the next morning, the café's license had been suspended, the management replaced, and a public apology issued. The entire establishment was closed until further notice. I hadn't asked him to do anything, but that was Riftan. Calm. Strong. Protective.