Chapter 7: Date Night... with a Twist

Friday evening had finally arrived, and Hu Tao declared it "mandatory romance night." Aether had no choice in the matter. Not that he minded—spending time with his chaotic wife always led to unexpected adventures. But tonight, Hu Tao was unusually enthusiastic.

She twirled around the living room in a red dress that was half-glamorous, half-witchy, holding a plastic rose between her teeth."We shall dine like royalty and act like we're in a soap opera," she said dramatically. "I demand candlelight, overacting, and emotional monologues."

Aether blinked. "Are we still going to that sushi place down the street?"

"Obviously," she smirked. "But with flair."

They made their way to the cozy little restaurant, which was thankfully used to seeing strange outfits and eccentric guests—this was Liyue, after all. The chef, Chef Tomoko, raised an eyebrow when he saw Hu Tao enter like a telenovela villainess.

"What can I get for you two tonight?" he asked, trying not to laugh.

"A tale of longing, served on a plate of passion," Hu Tao replied, flipping her menu like it was a fan.

Tomoko nodded solemnly. "So... two spicy tuna rolls?"

"Exactly."

The meal went on like a stage play. Hu Tao narrated every bite like it was a life-changing decision.

"This ginger," she announced loudly, "reminds me of my childhood. Bittersweet and slightly confusing."

Aether played along, raising his chopsticks with the gravity of a Shakespearean prince. "Then I shall duel this wasabi... for honor."

Other customers watched in amusement. A few even started joining in, adding fake gasps and applause. The waiter bowed dramatically with each dish. Aether and Hu Tao? They were loving every second of it.

But just as dessert arrived—mochi shaped like miniature slimes—an all-too-familiar voice called out.

"Well, if it isn't the theater couple."It was Yelan—dressed casually but smirking like she knew everything that had happened that night.

Hu Tao grinned. "Care to join us for the final act?"

Yelan slid into the booth. "Only if I get a line."

"Your line is: 'This was the most fun I've had watching someone eat raw fish.'" Hu Tao replied instantly.

Yelan laughed. "You two are ridiculous."

"We try," Aether said, offering her a mochi.

They ended the night with full stomachs and sore cheeks from laughing. And as they walked home, hand in hand, Hu Tao looked up at the starry sky and said, "Sometimes you don't need magic or monsters. Just sushi, silly voices, and someone who says yes to everything crazy you do."

Aether squeezed her hand. "Then I'm definitely in the right story."