There’s a disturbance before she could ask.

As Jan went to ask they heard a raised voice from the front of the restaurant. They both turned in their seats to see a woman at the front of the door arguing with the host. The woman had long hazel hair shot through with golden blonde and tall antlers. “I think that’s Amat, she started at my work today.” Steve said.

“She looks angry.” Jan’s voice was tinged with worry.

“I’m sorry Jan, I need to see if everything is alright.” Steve said as he rose from his chair.

“Of course.” His fiancé said as he turned.

Getting closer Steve heard the host speaking quietly trying to not make a fuss, “Madam, if you could just calm down…” Amat did not appear calm.

“Amat, everything alright?” He asked interceding. The host shot daggers in his direction.

Amat paused only a moment her eyes were hard, but bright, agate red Steve didn’t remember noting her intense eye colour before. “Steve, it is?” She asked, her accent was thick.

Steve nodded, “What is the problem here?” He asked her.

The host responded on her behalf, “I was informing the Madam that we don’t serve Mythfolk as their sensibilities offend our other guests.” He said rather confidently.

He went to continue but Steve raised his finger and turned his head to speak to Jan, several tables away. “Dear, the restaurant has decided not to serve Amat because of her race.” A number of heads turned to look as Jan collected her handbag and stood up.

“Sir,” The host was aghast, “I would rather you did not make such a fuss.”

“And I would rather you are not such an arsehole, but we don’t always get what we want.” Steve continued loudly enough for others to hear. He was quite happy to see at least one other couple collecting their things, their meal half finished.

“If you wish to leave then so be it, but you must do so quietly. I will organise your bill.”

Jan laughed, “I don’t think so, and if you want to take us to court over the bill please do, I am sure we can make sure that the trial is public so everyone knows that you choose not to serve minority groups.” The couple which has also risen had already left without a word, others were quickly joining them, maybe a quarter of the clientele were in the process of leaving by the time Steve, Jan and Amat walked out.

“Amat is it, I’m Jan, Steve’s fiancé.” She introduced herself, “I love your top, what is it made from?” She asked admiring the rich red fabric and the way it was draped.

“It’s made from the skin of an animal on my home world, my brother imports the fabric.” She said, all signs of her anger gone.

Jan took her arm, “Well it’s lovely. Now, would you like to join us for dinner? And if so, what would you like to eat?”

Amat smiled.