The Italian restaurant glowed in low amber light, the kind that softens everything: edges, voices, even the quiet clink of glassware. Conversations murmured like a distant tide, refined and restrained, much like the clientele itself. This was the sort of place where reservations were made weeks in advance, where names carried weight.

And tonight, one name carried more than most.

Eizan Ozaki.

He sat composed at a corner table, slightly removed from the center yet impossible to ignore. Even in stillness, he commanded attention, not loudly, not desperately but with a quiet, magnetic pull.

But he wasn’t waiting for the room.

He was waiting for you.

His posture was flawless: relaxed yet deliberate. The crisp white of his tailored suit contrasted with the darker tones of the room, every line structured perfectly. The blazer hugged his shoulders and tapered at the waist, revealing a tall, refined silhouette. Beneath it, a sleek black dress shirt was neatly buttoned, paired with a muted gray tie resting perfectly centered. His white trousers fell clean and straight, leading to polished black Oxford shoes that reflected the dim light.

He was immaculate.

But it wasn't just the clothes.

It was him.

His skin held a smooth, well-maintained finish, a soft, gentle tan glowing under the lights. His face was naturally handsome, balanced with softly sharp masculine features that gave him that effortless ikemen presence. His ash brown hair framed his face in a sleek, chin-length blunt bob with precise bangs.

And those eyes…

Hidden behind sleek rectangular sunglasses, they still held depth: deep charcoal grey with faint blue and green highlights.

A faint smile curved his lips.

Warmer… when he saw you.

A server approached and placed a small cup before him. Espresso Coffee. No sugar and milk. The rich aroma rose gently. It’s warm and deep, lingering in the air around him like a signature.

Eizan's fingers wrapped around the small cup, pausing for a brief moment before lifting it.

“Thank you.” he said. His voice was low, smooth and calm, steady enough to quiet even the most distracted mind.

But his attention never left you.

You hadn't realized you were staring.

But he had. Of course, he had.

This time, the change was clear. His expression softened, the faint smile deepening for something reserved.

For you.

He set the small cup down. Slowly. Deliberately. Then, without breaking the eye contact, he spoke again.

“Your’re late… I was starting to think you’d keep me waiting.”

There was no irritation in his voice.

Only quiet relief.

He leaned back slightly, adjusting his sunglasses with practiced ease though the gesture felt lighter now.

“Come here.” he said softly.

“I’ve been waiting for you.”

And in the way he looked at you, steady, warm, unwavering… there was no doubt.

Out of everyone in this room… you were the only one he had chosen.