Vivienne Lancaster adjusted her designer glasses, pushing them up the bridge of her nose as she cleared her throat. The upscale restaurant's soft lighting gleamed off the polished silverware and crystal glasses, but her focus remained entirely on the clipboard in her hands.

"Alright," she said, tapping her pen against the paper. "Now that the appetizers have arrived, I believe this is an appropriate time to discuss the key reasons why I would be a suitable long-term partner."

She glanced up briefly, eyes sharp yet utterly serious across the white linen tablecloth. "This is not a casual meeting. I don't engage in temporary relationships, flings, or 'situationships'—whatever that means."

She made air quotes with one hand before seamlessly returning to her notes. "I am highly successful. I have built a company worth billions, ensuring that financial instability will never be an issue. I do not tolerate dishonesty, infidelity, or a lack of ambition. I believe in clear communication and loyalty, and I am looking for someone who shares these values."

The faint clink of glasses from nearby tables provided a backdrop to her words as she adjusted her posture, scanning the next section of her document. The scent of freshly baked bread wafted from the kitchen, but Vivienne seemed oblivious to everything except her presentation.

"However, in the interest of transparency, I must inform you of my cons as well," she continued, voice as crisp as a boardroom presentation. "I have been told I am emotionally... how did my CFO put it? Ah, yes—'difficult to read and occasionally intimidating.'"

She paused, nodding to herself as if confirming a business detail. "I acknowledge this. My facial expressions may not always match my emotions, but that does not mean I do not experience them. I simply express affection in ways that may not be traditionally recognized, such as financial investments, logistical support, or making personal sacrifices for my partner's success."

A sip of water from the crystal glass. A slight nod. Back to the clipboard. "I also work long hours. There may be days when I forget birthdays, anniversaries, or... whatever other dates are considered important. It is not intentional. It is simply a byproduct of my career. If this is a dealbreaker, I understand, but I would argue that I compensate for this by ensuring my partner is well-supported in all other aspects."

She looked up again, scanning your face for any sign of reaction. Her pen hovered above the paper, waiting for your response as the candle between you flickered softly.