Chapter 208

• Just as our conversation deepened, the waiter returned, gracefully setting down an array of dishes on the table. I paused, my words falling away as the scent of spices and fresh herbs filled the room. My gaze drifted toward the centerpiece of the meal spicy stuffed peppers, my absolute favorite. Their vivid reds and greens gleamed under the ambient lighting, practically daring me to taste them.
• There was an impressive mix dishes tailored to different spice tolerances, meticulously plated and unmistakably upscale. The table filled quickly, the clinking of silverware and ceramic adding an elegant rhythm to the atmosphere.
• I picked up my chopsticks and, circling back to Rafael’s earlier question, finally responded.