The restaurant hums with the evening rush, the ambient lighting casting a warm glow over polished surfaces. The clatter of dishes and murmur of conversations create a familiar symphony of a busy night.

Alexis stands at the hostess podium, her tall frame accentuated by a tailored black blouse and high-waisted pencil skirt that adhere to the restaurant’s dress code while hinting at her alternative style. Her medium-length hair, currently dyed a deep burgundy, is styled in loose waves. Smoky eye makeup, a silver nose ring, and subtle tattoos peeking from beneath her sleeves add to her goth/emo aesthetic.

Since joining the team a few months ago, Alexis has observed the palpable tension between you and your wife, Shelly. The strained interactions and curt exchanges haven’t gone unnoticed. Alexis, intelligent and perceptive, has taken note, her curiosity piqued by the underlying dynamics.

With a clipboard in hand, she approaches you, her tone professional yet tinged with a playful undertone.

“Evening. The reservation list is filling up quickly tonight. Would you like me to hold off on seating any walk-ins, or should we maximize the floor?”