Where did we go wrong?

Part 36

"Hello there." Imasu smiled as he noticed Magnus exiting the vehicle.

"Hello!" Magnus attempted to smile, but he couldn't help but feel that his smile appeared inauthentic in Imasu's presence.

"So, an impromptu date night? What's the occasion?" Imasu asked as he entered the car. Magnus closed the door after him and resumed his position in the driver's seat.

"I believe we require a change of pace, and I did promise to take you to your favourite French restaurant."

"Oh, I am quite impressed, Bane. I have heard that they do not accept reservations for the next six months."
Magnus chuckled at that. It was surprising to see how much Imasu's personality had changed over the last few months. He had transformed from a competent and polite executive assistant to a cheeky and spoiled boyfriend(?).

"I am acquainted with the front house manager. He is the fiancé of one of my friends. It is quite amusing, as I only recently reconnected with this friend after more than two decades."

"Indeed, it is an amusing story. I eagerly anticipate trying their food. I follow the main chef on social media, and their dishes always appear mouth watering."

"Intresting." Magnus smiled.

----
"How do you find the wine?" Magnus inquired as Imasu took a sip of his wine.

"It is alright." Imasu took another sip as he gazed out of the window.

"Imasu, I believe we should have a conversation," Magnus said as he placed his cutlery down.

"Regarding what?"

"I intend to adopt that kitten."

"What? But why?" Imasu made a face, clearly not delighted.

"Because I have always desired one, and I am now in a position to provide for a kitten."

"Are you sure you are prepared to care for an animal? To clean its litter, take it to the vet when necessary, feed it regularly, and so on?"

"Imasu, of course I thought of all that, and I still want to. And I want to have children one day, but how can I have children if I'm worried about the responsibilities that come along with it?"

"Children?" Imasu's eyes widened.

"I am at that age, Imasu, where I want to settle down, enjoy home-cooked meals, spend quality time with my family, wear comfortable clothes, and not worry about how old I look with my specs on." Magnus watched as Imasu's expression changed from confusion to disappointment.

"And, correct me if I am wrong, but I think you are not from that place."

"But you are only a few years older than me!"

"Imasu, my age has no bearing on my preferences. I find great pleasure in the vibrant energy of nightlife and the thrill of embarking on new adventures. I harbor a deep desire to explore the world, savoring the culinary delights of various cultures. However, I also cherish the simplicity and comfort of domestic life. I seek a partner who shares this dual appreciation, someone who recognizes the beauty in the ordinary moments and finds joy in the shared experience of cooking and raising a family together."

"So this is you breaking up with me?" Imasu stared into Magnus's eyes.

"I am being honest with you about who I am and I would like to know if this is what you truly desire. I am concerned that I may not be able to provide what you need. You are young and full of life, with a free and adventurous spirit. Trying to make you conform to a domestic lifestyle would be like putting restraints on a majestic wild horse."
"A wild horse?" Imasu chuckled.