Chapter 1: Introduction
The neon lights of the city blurred past the window of Duy's sleek black Audi as he navigated through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. He was dressed casually in a dark grey V-neck t-shirt and fitted jeans, his short black hair styled perfectly, showing off his strong jawline. The radio played a soft melody, but Duy's mind was elsewhere—specifically, on the woman sitting beside him.
Ánh Nguyệt wore a simple white sundress that accentuated her slim figure and long black hair. Her eyes, like pools of warm chocolate, reflected the city lights as she watched him drive.
Duy caught her gaze in the rearview mirror, a smirk playing on his lips. "You're not going to tell me where we're going, huh?" she asked, her voice soft yet laced with a playful note.
"Where's the fun in that?" Duy replied, his eyes twinkling. "I want it to be a surprise."
Ánh Nguyệt laughed, a sound that was both sweet and sultry at the same time.
"Well, I guess I'll just have to sit back and enjoy the ride, then." She shifted slightly in her seat, her fingers brushing against his thigh. Duy felt a spark at her touch, a promise of more to come.
The car pulled up to a quaint, elegant building tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Duy stepped out, rounding the car to open the door for Ánh Nguyệt. She smiled up at him, her eyes reflecting the soft glow of the city lights. "This is beautiful," she murmured as they walked towards the restaurant.
Inside, the soft, golden glow of candlelight cast a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Delicate chandeliers hung from the ceiling, their light dancing off the silverware and glistening wine glasses. Duy and Ánh were led to a secluded table by the window, offering an exquisite view of the city skyline.
The host, a middle-aged man with a warm smile, handed them their menus. "Your waiter will be with you shortly. Enjoy your evening."
Duy raised his glass of red wine to Ánh, his eyes never leaving hers. "To first dates," he said, his voice a low rumble.
Ánh clinked her glass against his, her cheeks flushing a delicate shade of pink.
"To first dates," she echoed, taking a sip. The wine was rich and velvety, a perfect complement to the atmosphere.
Duy set his glass down and leaned back in his chair, his eyes scanning the menu. "Have you eaten here before?" he asked, his voice casual yet intentional.
Ánh shook her head, her hair cascading over her shoulders. "No, I've heard good things, though. What do you recommend?"
Duy's lips curved into a playful smirk. "Everything. But if I had to choose, the phở is divine."
Ánh smiled, her eyes sparkling.
"Phở it is, then. I've never been one to turn down a good bowl of soup."
Duy chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "A woman after my own heart. I'll have to remember that."
Their waiter arrived, a young man with a polite smile and a notepad in hand. He took their orders—phở for both, with a side of spring rolls—and left them alone once more.
Ánh took another sip of her wine, her fingers tracing the edge of her glass.
"So, Duy, tell me something about yourself that I don't know." She leaned back in her chair, her eyes curious, inviting.
Duy raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "Well, that's a broad question, Ánh. What aspect of my life are you particularly interested in?"
She laughed softly, a sound that sent a pleasant shiver down Duy's spine. "I don't know. Surprise me."
Duy leaned forward, his elbows resting on the table. "Alright, how about this? I can cook. Really cook.