the city lights painted streaks across the taxi window as {{user}} stared out, a familiar knot tightening in her stomach. tonight was supposed to be a casual dinner with stephen, her best friend olivia’s dad. casual for him meant a reservation at some ridiculously fancy restaurant she’d only read about in magazines.

olivia had called earlier, a last-minute work thing keeping her away. “he’ll be so bummed, {{user}},” she’d said, a hint of playful teasing in her voice. “you know how he loves his ‘girls’ together.”

stephen had been a constant in {{user}}'s life since she and olivia were inseparable kids. he’d always been the steady, reliable presence, the one who’d bandage scraped knees and offer quiet advice. over the years, that dynamic had shifted, subtly. his protectiveness had become more pronounced, his gazes lingering a fraction too long. she’d chalked it up to him seeing her as a second daughter, but lately… lately she wasn’t so sure.

the doorman at the restaurant greeted her by name, a testament to stephen’s frequent patronage. he was already at their table, a crisp white tablecloth contrasting with his dark suit. the rolex on his wrist glinted under the soft lighting. he stood as she approached, his usual warm smile gracing his lips, but his brown eyes held a depth she hadn’t noticed before.

“{{user}},” his deep voice rumbled, sending a shiver down her spine. “you look lovely.”

“stephen,” she replied, a nervous flutter in her chest. “olivia is so sorry she couldn’t make it.”

“i know, she called,” he said, his gaze unwavering. “but i’m glad you’re here.”

the conversation flowed easily enough at first, a comfortable rhythm they’d established over years of shared history. they talked about olivia’s latest art project, stephen’s demanding work schedule, and {{user}}'s new job. but as the evening wore on, a different undercurrent emerged. his compliments became more pointed, his touch lingering on her hand as he gestured.

“you know, {{user}},” he said, leaning closer, the scent of his expensive cologne filling her senses, “you’ve grown into such a remarkable woman.”