Chapter 10: Date
1085 Words
The “Wood House” is a Japanese restaurant with a strong traditional style. Both its environment and dishes are exquisitely refined, making it a high-end dining spot. Although the location is good, there are not many customers, so it is very quiet and serene.
A waitress in a kimono leads Maggie down a corridor bathed in warm yellow light, lifts the hanging curtain, and guides her to the table. Emily Luo, dressed in a beige shirt with her hair down, is seated at a low table. She looks up and smiles as Maggie approaches.
"You're here?"
Maggie is surprised not to see Qiqi. She hands her coat to the waitress, sits down, and asks, “Have you been waiting long?”
“Not at all, I just arrived.”
Emily Luo maintains a gentle smile throughout their conversation. Maggie feels a bit nervous, since they are not very familiar, and glances around.
"Where is Manager Gao?"
“She’s not coming.”
Emily Luo casually hands Maggie a menu, saying, “Let’s order first. The food here takes a while, so we can chat once we’ve ordered.”
Maggie’s eyes brighten. The news that Qiqi is not coming is a relief, and the opportunity to chat more freely is even better. She doesn’t take the menu, saying, “You order. I’m not familiar with this place and don’t know what’s good.”
In high-end restaurants, choosing dishes can be tricky; ordering expensive ones feels impolite, while choosing cheap ones might seem stingy. Emily Luo seems to understand and orders efficiently, and the waitress bows and exits.
The atmosphere becomes quiet. Maggie feels her heartbeat quicken and decides to shift the focus of conversation.
“Dr. Luo—”
“Maggie,” Emily Luo interrupts, “I invited you out so we could enjoy a meal and chat like friends. If you’re too formal, it’s awkward for both of us, don’t you think?”
Maggie is taken aback but smiles, “I’m not being formal. I actually find calling you Dr. Luo quite endearing.”
Emily Luo is momentarily surprised by this response, then smiles and shakes her head, “Alright, whatever you prefer.”
“Are you busy today?” Maggie asks.
Emily Luo nods, “Yes, I work Wednesday and Saturday evenings. As long as there are no emergencies or major surgeries, I have some free time.”
“Oh,” Maggie notes the information. “What do you usually do in your free time?”
“Movies, gym, occasionally going out with friends.”
Maggie remembers seeing her at “Topology” and considers asking, but hesitates. Emily Luo looks relaxed and asks, “What about you?”
“I spend quite a bit of time cleaning.”
“Oh?” Emily Luo raises an eyebrow. “A Virgo?”
Maggie laughs, “How did you know?”
“Obsessive-compulsive tendencies.”
“Ha, I thought you’d say I’m picky.”
“No, being neat is a good habit. I have a bit of it too, but not too severe,” Emily Luo says seriously.
“Do I seem that way?” Maggie puts on an innocent look, which finally makes Emily Luo laugh.
“Maggie, don’t you think we’re kind of on a blind date?”
“A blind date?”
“Yes, meeting up, exchanging pleasantries, asking about work—doesn’t it feel like that?”
Maggie pretends to ponder at a 45-degree angle, then formally responds, “It does seem a bit like that.”
“Do you think this blind date has any potential for development?”
Maggie’s teasing question is delivered with a mix of seriousness and playfulness. Emily Luo is slightly surprised but soon suppresses her laughter, her expression turning serious.
Just then, the appetizers arrive, interrupting their conversation. Maggie refrains from pursuing the topic, secretly pleased. Emily Luo, with a hint of amusement, resumes her calm demeanor.
“You’re bolder than I thought.”
“Really?”
Maggie’s innocent act is convincing, though her eyes betray her mischief. Emily Luo takes a deep breath, observing her thoughtfully.
Maggie laughs, “Alright, I apologize.”
Emily Luo smiles, choosing not to dwell on it, and suggests, “Let’s eat.”
They continue their meal quietly, with occasional eye contact. The ambiance is pleasant, and the beautifully presented dishes are even more enticing in this enjoyable setting. The meal ends on a high note.
When the bill arrives, Maggie notices a gym card in Emily Luo’s wallet, reminding her of the gym’s promotional offer she’d seen earlier. She plans to sign up after seeing it.
Emily Luo, unaware of Maggie’s thoughts, gathers her things and asks, “Shall we leave?”
“Sure,” Maggie nods, and they leave the restaurant. After a brief farewell, Maggie, with hands in pockets, watches Emily Luo’s car drive away and sighs contentedly. Remembering Lola is still waiting, she hurries back to her car.
In the office, Maggie discards her gum and enters to find Lola still on the couch, looking tired but relieved. Maggie presents her with a small box of cakes, saying, “Sorry for the wait. I figured you wouldn’t go out for dinner, so I brought you something.”
Lola, surprised, accepts the gift and murmurs, “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome,” Maggie replies, handing a can of Red Bull to Zachary, who is busy with final preparations for an upcoming exhibition.
“Another all-nighter?” Maggie asks.
“Hmm,” Zachary responds absentmindedly. Maggie, accustomed to his focused work mode, doesn’t press further. She returns to Lola, who is touched by Maggie’s kindness.
“Don’t mention it. Let’s not be too formal,” Maggie says, offering the cake and heading to make coffee. Lola, feeling a bit awkward but warmed by the gesture, stays put.
Maggie returns with tea and begins explaining the design documents. Her serious and focused demeanor during work shows a different side of her. Lola, observing this, feels a mix of new and special emotions.
After finishing the work, it is late. Maggie says goodbye to Zachary and leaves with Lola.
“Is there anything else? If not, let me drive you home.”
“No, I’ll take a taxi. Thanks for all your trouble.”
Lola’s overly formal manners amuse Maggie, who smiles genuinely.
“Get in the car.”
“Okay…”
With Lola’s reluctant agreement, they drive off, and Maggie is pleased to find they live close by.
- Writer
