Chapter 328: Dinner time

Carmen and I stepped into a small, dimly lit restaurant nestled in a quiet corner of the city. Soft jazz music floated through the air, and golden candlelight illuminated the tables, each set with pristine silverware and neatly folded napkins.

It was a world away from the bustling day I'd had, and I couldn't help but smile as Carmen guided me to a cozy booth in the corner.

"I figured something intimate would be a nice change of pace," she said, her voice low as she took my hand in hers across the table.

"Good call," I replied, glancing around. "This place is perfect."

Carmen's lips curled into a soft smile, her eyes never leaving mine. "So are you."

The waiter came by to take our orders, and Carmen scanned the menu, picking out dishes I hadn't tried before.