“Why would Claire mind?” Finley said. “She knows exactly what kind of relationship we have.” 

He stood and grabbed a napkin, gently wiping the corner of Renee’s lips. “You little glutton, how do you still eat like a messy kid?” 

A wave of nausea hit Claire so hard, she had to look away. “I’m not feeling well,” she muttered. “I’m heading home.” 

Finley glanced at her, a flicker of concern crossing his face. “Is it the baby again? This little one really doesn’t behave, huh?” 

For a split second, Claire thought he might walk her out. Instead, he said, “If you’re not feeling well, go ahead. I’ll come back after Renee finishes eating.” 

She stared at him, biting back the bitter laugh bubbling in her throat. Even pregnant, she came second to Renee. 

Suddenly, the fire alarm blared. People started shouting, “Fire! Run!” 

Before Claire could react, the crowd surged toward the exits, the restaurant erupting into chaos. Her mind blanked for a moment. Instinctively, her eyes searched for Finley. 

But she saw was him scooping Renee into his arms, rushing toward the exit without so much as a glance back. 

It turned out to be a false alarm—just someone smoking in the bathroom. People trickled back to their tables, shaking off the scare like it was nothing. 

Including Finley and Renee. 

Renee leaned into him dramatically, her arms wrapped around his. “Finley, that was terrifying! Thank goodness you were there!”