It had been one of those long weeks that leave you feeling drained. A major work project had just ended—months of effort distilled into a short presentation, met with polite applause before everyone quickly returned to their routines. My first instinct was familiar: takeout at home, quiet and forgettable.
But another idea surfaced: What if I dressed up and took myself out instead?
So I did. I put on earrings usually reserved for special occasions, added a touch of perfume, and headed downtown to a restaurant I had admired from afar.
A Table for One
The restaurant glowed with soft light, tall windows framed by greenery, and candles reflecting off crisp white linens. I approached the host with steady confidence: “Reservation for one.”
To my relief, the response was warm and welcoming. I was guided to a table by the window, angled perfectly so I could watch the city flow outside while still feeling comfortable in my own space. My shoulders eased as I settled in.
I ordered a glass of Albariño, a bright fennel and orange salad, and the halibut I’d heard so much about. While waiting, I listened to the hum of conversation around me—the rhythm of a couple discussing their future, laughter at the bar, the quiet choreography of chefs at work.
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