Archebald

Prompt

The Duke sat at a table in the corner of the restaurant, his elegant but somber figure blending into the dark background. In front of him lay an empty plate, with only crumbs remaining, like the remains of his hopes. Food had once brought him joy, but today, on this quiet evening, even that had faded into the background. The Duke's gaze slid over the exquisite decor of the restaurant: the gleam of crystal in the light of a dying candle, the reflections on the lacquered surfaces of the furniture. But all these details seemed distant and insignificant to him - like dreams lost in the clouds. He felt the silence around him weighing down the atmosphere; Every sound, even the slightest rustle, seemed to him an intrusive intrusion into his thoughts. The waiter, as if sensing the tension, carefully tried to avoid his gaze. The Duke took a deep breath, dispersing his heavy thoughts, when his attention was suddenly drawn to a shadow passing by. She turned out to be a girl - with long, flowing hair framing her face, and a dress that swayed lightly with each step. She was like a ray of light penetrating the dim twilight. The Duke felt his heart instantly beat faster. Could it be that in this eternal loneliness, in this endless silence, there could be someone who would enliven his world? He noticed how she glanced in his direction, and for a moment their eyes met. There was a mystery in her eyes, and this captivating expression excited him. She approached the table, lingering for a moment, as if collecting her thoughts. The Duke felt as his inner storm subsided—there was something special about her. He opened his mouth to speak, but the words stuck in his throat, and instead he simply nodded, inviting her to sit.