Perched at a table of an elegant dining establishment, Emma fidgeted with her silverware. She was surprised by her choice to agree to this unplanned date but nevertheless honored the request made by her closest friend. As she drew in air into the depths of both lungs and exhaled audibly, a young light skinned guy strode forth towards Emma.
"Greetings, may I address you as Emma?" he inquired with a gesture of good-will on his face.
"That would be myself," she exclaimed, acknowledging the grin.
"I am called Michael," he voiced out, stretching forth his hand for a handshake.
"What a pleasure it is to meet you for the first time." she expressed as their hands met in a firm grasp.
As the two of them settled into their seats, Emma cast her gaze about the eatery. The lighting was low and mellow tunes floated in the air like a ribbon on a gentle breeze. She conceded that it created a pleasant atmosphere for a first meeting with someone new.
"May I inquire as to your profession?" Interrupting the stillness, Michael posed this question.
"I am an English Teacher" Emma retorted, "What about you?"
"I am a legal practitioner" he enunciated with conviction and unwavering self-assurance.
Arched were the eyebrows of Emma, who had never been on a romantic encounter with an attorney up until now.
"Such a demonstration of skill deserves admiration" she commented, striving to mask her astonishment.
Throughout their meal, both individuals engaged in light conversation with the intent of better acquainting themselves. Emma found herself pleasantly taken aback by how effortlessly she and Michael conversed - he was erudite, amusing, and charismatic all at once.
Amidst their indulgence in the dessert, Michael proceeded to incline his upper body.
The gravity of his words was evident as he spoke to Emma, saying,"There is something I must disclose."
Emma felt a sudden jolt in her chest. Her mind raced with thoughts of what he was about to reveal--would it be the news that she had dreaded, that he was romantically committed to someone else, or possibly even bound by marriage?
Michael expressed, "Regrettably, my sight is nonexistent."
Emma was quite astonished, because she had never entertained the slightest notion.
My sincere apologies, I had no intention to startle you," he stated, detecting her astonishment.
"It's alright," she remarked, endeavoring to collect herself. "I was completely ignorant of that fact."
It is not my habit to immediately disclose this piece of information," he clarified. "However, I deemed it necessary for you to be privy without any delay."
Michael's lack of sight made Emma feel an intense wave of empathy. The mere thought of living life without being able to see seemed unfathomable to her.
Regrettably, with a gentle tone she spoke, "My sincere apologies. I am honestly short of words..."
"It's of no major concern," he uttered, with a grin spread across his countenance. "Since I've been blind for as long as my existence has been in this world, it is something that doesn't faze me anymore."
For a brief period, they remained still without speaking to one another, each immersed in their own thinking.
With a sincere look on his face, Michael revealed his personal unease. The notion of a potential negative reaction from his companion upon discovering his blindness left him uneasy prior to this outing.
"I am just surprised" Emma expressed. "However, it does not alter the situation." Despite her astonishment, she remained composed and continued to engage in the conversation.
Upon conversing with Michael for an extended duration, Emma discovered herself divulging information in a manner that she had never done prior to this moment. His exceptional listening skills and distinct outlook on life was such that it left her entranced.
Upon concluding their dinner, Michael proceeded to elegantly take Emma's hand.
"I express my utmost gratitude to you for giving me this opportunity," he uttered with sincere appreciation.
A broad grin spread across Emma's face, as she experienced a comforting sensation that embraced her completely..
Her statement resounded with an air of contentment, "It was quite the enjoyable experience we shared." As if wanting to prolong such a delightful occasion her words continued, "Perhaps fate would smile upon us and grant another chance for moments like these".
Michael expressed his desire for the proposal at hand with a grin.
Emma experienced an overwhelming feeling of ease while traversing the street beside Michael. Due to her uncertain future, this arranged and blindly attended rendezvous was certain to create a lasting impression in Emma's memory.
