Fatally Yours

Chapter 37

•INDIANA•

As we drove through Sighișoara, I couldn't help but stare out the window in awe. The streets were alive with a golden glow from the ornate streetlamps, casting a romantic sheen over the historic municipality—not a town, as Dominik had corrected me earlier.

Narrow cobblestone roads twisted through colorful, centuries-old buildings, their vibrant hues of mustard yellow, soft pink, and teal muted in the moonlight.

Strings of fairy lights crisscrossed the streets, giving the place an enchanting, almost magical feel. 

Shops and cafés with charmingly rustic signs were still open, spilling warm light onto the streets. Locals and tourists alike walked leisurely, chatting and laughing as they passed by, their shadows dancing along the walls.

Musicians played soft, melodic tunes in corners, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere that made me fall in love with the place instantly. 

Our car climbed higher into the hills, the roads winding up toward the edge of the municipality. When we finally pulled up to the restaurant, my breath caught.

It was perched on the hilltop like a hidden gem, its open layout offering breathtaking views of the town below. Tiny house rooftops glimmered like scattered jewels against the dark backdrop of the surrounding forest. 

The restaurant itself was quaint and romantic, with a cozy outdoor setup lit by candles and lanterns. Tables were arranged on an open deck, and a small live band was playing a soft, soulful tune.

A few couples swayed slowly in front of them, their movements intimate and serene, as though the music were made just for them. 

Dominik parked the car and led me toward the entrance. I felt a flutter in my chest as I took in the atmosphere. It was utterly charming, and though I doubted Dominik had brought me here for any romantic reason, I couldn't help but feel the mood of the place sink into my bones. 

Just as we reached the door, an older man suddenly appeared, hurrying out to greet us. He was shorter than both Dominik and me, with a cheerful face and a warm presence that seemed to light up the entire entrance. He immediately embraced Dominik in a tight hug, speaking to him in rapid Romanian. 

I glanced at Dominik, surprised to see a rare, genuine smile on his face. There was a softness to his expression that I hadn't seen before, and it was clear he was expecting this reunion. 

The older man stepped back, his hands still on Dominik's shoulders, as he continued speaking animatedly in Romanian. Finally, his eyes shifted to me, sparkling with curiosity.

"And who is this?" he asked in English, his accent thick but endearing. "Your girlfriend?" 

Dominik and I exchanged a glance, and for a split second, my heart skipped a beat. Then, Dominik shook his head gently.

"No," he said. "She's... a friend." 

The word caught me off guard.

Friend? I didn't think we'd reached that stage, especially given our complicated dynamic. He was my boss, but also someone I was sent to spy on.

Still, hearing him call me a friend stirred something unexpected in me, a small flicker of happiness I couldn't quite explain. 

I quickly extended my hand and smiled at the older man.

"Hi, I'm Nova. Nice to meet you." 

He took my hand in both of his, his grip firm yet warm.

"Denis. I'm the owner of this restaurant and also the chef," he said proudly.