Date Night (Conclusion)

Scarlett comes out of the toilet to find that Ryder is waiting for her near a pole, having already freshened up. He casually slips his hand into hers and kisses their interlocked fingers.

“There’s a small restaurant at the corner,” he says. “They only sell seafood. Will you be alright with it?”

“Yeah, let’s go.”

They head for an outdoor restaurant which is located a few meters away from the amphitheater. It’s a cozy place with warm lighting and music for the diners. Ryder chooses a spot away from the crowd. A server hands them the food menu.

“I’ll take the seafood salad,” Scarlett states.

“Lobster Thermidor for me,” Ryder says. “And white wine.”

The server notes down the orders and leaves. Ryder is still holding her hand, lightly brushing her fingers with his thumb.

“I’m curious about something,” she begins. “You never had a girlfriend?”

Ryder doesn’t reply but broods over her question. “I had one,” he finally replies.

Scarlett shifts in her seat. He had a girlfriend? Who?

“What ha