011 The Restaurant Encounter

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, painting dappled patterns across Emily's bed. Her ankle still throbbed, a reminder of yesterday's misstep, but despite the lingering pain, there was a hint of anticipation in her heart. Ethan didn't know exactly which floor her apartment was on, so he arrived early, waiting patiently by the entrance of her building.

“I’m here, you can come down,” Ethan’s voice came through the phone, carrying with it the coolness of the early morning air.

Emily nodded as she hung up. She moved slowly, each step a painful reminder of her injured ankle, but she tried her best to keep a smile on her face. She limped towards the door, each movement a battle against the sharp pangs of pain that shot up her leg.

When she finally reached the entrance, Ethan was standing there, holding a bouquet of fresh roses. His eyes softened with concern the moment they met hers. “These are for you. Let me help you,” he said, his voice gentle, though his worry was evident.

“I