Later, Finley booked a fancy restaurant for dinner. Claire didn’t want to go but figured, why not? It’d probably be their last meal together.
At the table, Finley handed her the menu with a smile that looked genuine if you didn’t know better. “Order whatever you like.”
Before she could even scan it, he rattled off suggestions. “Let’s do the herb-crusted lamb, escargot, foie gras… oh, and a bottle of red.”
Claire frowned. None of those were things she liked. Did he even know her anymore? Maybe he never did.
To top it off, Finley didn’t even eat lamb.
Before she could call him out, Renee showed up, sliding into a chair. She whipped off her mask, all smiles.
“Claire! Happy birthday! I was filming nearby and skipped lunch. Finley didn’t want me to starve, so he invited me. You don’t mind, right?”
Claire’s lips parted, but before she could get a word out, the waiter appeared, serving plates.
Renee lit up. “Wow, all my favorite foods! I’m starving. Hope you don’t mind if I dive in!”
She didn’t wait for permission, grabbing a fork and tearing into the meal with zero hesitation.
Finley watched her, his face softening. “Of course, they’re all your favorites. I ordered them just for you. Take your time.”
“Thanks, Finley! You’re the best!” Renee beamed, then threw in, “Love you!”
A second later, she backtracked, glancing at Claire with a quick, practiced laugh. “Oops! Sorry, Claire. Habit. I say it to my fans all the time. You’re cool with it, right?”
