Zach liked her smile, and noticed nothing else, that time. He smiled in return and led her into the restaurant.
It was a boisterous and semi-loud place, with singing happening in a back corner, and different areas lit at different levels, with romantic couples in one section, a group watching a game in another room, and above, on the balcony area, a small group playing Dungeons and Dragons.
Zach, however, paused at the host desk, where a large woman, in both height and roundness, came around and kissed his cheeks and forehead. "Hello, Zach! This must be the woman you talk about so! Come! We have the perfect table for you!" She turned to Tessa and bowed to her, truly bowed. "Welcome to Annolio's, and be welcome. I'm Andrea Randopolis, lady of the house." Then, she led the way and somehow, every time they came near a loud or boisterous table, a waiter was between them and it, smiling and nodding to them, a living wall that kept them cut off from it. Almost like someone had planned it!
The back room was bare save for one table, and candles lit the entire room, which was garbed in a tasteful green and golden motif. Dragons and mythical beats cavorted on tapestries, even as a table, set next to a fire, held a red silk tablecloth, a red rose, and two sets of silver plates.
She pulled out chairs for them, and then gestured for them to sit. "The house special is on the house for you two, tonight. Enjoy! Appetizers and drinks will be out shortly." With a touch to Zach's should, she was gone.
Zach sank his face into his hands, blushing and shook his head.