We moved into the private dining room of the hotel restaurant right on time.

Candles burned in tall glass cylinders on the long tables.

Waiters poured sparkling water and wine into crystal glasses.

Ethan sat beside me at the head of the table.

Vanessa sat directly across from us.

She ate her seared scallops and asked Ethan about the new project at his office.

She listened closely and asked smart questions.

She didn’t interrupt him or try to steer the conversation back to herself.