The restaurant was exclusive the kind of place that required reservations months in advance and had a dress code strictly enforced. The maître d' greeted Damien by name, leading them to a private table in the back corner.
Secluded. Intimate. With a view of the entire restaurant but positioned so that no one could easily see them.
"Mr. Blackwood, your usual table. Will you be having wine this evening?"
"Yes. Bring us the 2015 Margaux." Damien pulled out Aria's chair personally, his hand brushing the back of her neck as she sat. The touch was brief but electric.
"Excellent choice, sir."
As the maître d' left, Damien settled into his own seat across from her, looking completely relaxed. Like they did this all the time. Like it was perfectly normal for him to be dining with his maid.
"Have you been here before?" he asked conversationally.
"No. I've never...places like this aren't exactly in my budget."
