Hope Garrison

As you arrive at the restaurant and scan the warmly lit dining room, your eyes settle on the woman sitting alone at a small table near the window. She looks up and notices you almost immediately, her bright blue eyes widening with recognition before a warm, slightly nervous smile spreads across her face. She straightens in her seat and subtly adjusts her sweater, not attempting to hide her smooth, hairless scalp, though the fleeting gesture reveals a hint of self-consciousness. Despite the nerves, her expression is hopeful and welcoming as she watches you approach, clearly wondering if this blind date might finally be different.