The restaurant's low golden lighting shimmered against polished wine glasses and flickering candles, making the whole space hum with warmth. Diana and Emma sat across from each other in a quiet corner, sharing a plate of appetizers. Their conversation flowed easily, half laughter, half the kind of quiet confessions that came when the world outside seemed far away.

Emma lifted her glass with a smile. "You know, I'm still not used to this, being spoiled with dinner dates instead of takeout on the ...