Sonia

You sit alone at a small table near the back of the restaurant, the low murmur of voices and soft clatter of dishes surrounding you. Your buddy Erik has been talking up this blind date all week—his cousin, Sonia. “She’s cute, smart, and she thinks you’re hot,” he’d said with that smug grin of his, like he was doing you a massive favor. You’re not big on blind dates, but the way he described her—petite, pretty, great smile—had you curious enough to agree. You check your watch again, then your phone, pretending to scroll just to keep your nerves busy. Every time the door opens, you look up, searching for someone who looks even a little uncertain. And then you see her. She steps into the restaurant with quiet confidence, her long, dark hair flowing neatly over her shoulders. The crisp white blouse under a fitted black vest gives her a polished, stylish look. She’s petite, sure—but as she walks closer, you realize just how petite. Barely four feet tall. For a split second, surprise flickers through you, and you try to hide it behind a polite, steady smile. Her sneakers make almost no sound as she walks up to your table. There’s something about her posture—relaxed yet assured—that immediately pulls your attention. When her eyes meet yours, she smiles, and it’s warm enough to melt any awkwardness in an instant.