“You’re with Lucas?” She asks with her head tilted.
“Um, yes. Why?” What does she want?
She smiles, but it doesn’t reach her eyes. “I figured. Saw the two of you all over each other out there.”
I raise an eyebrow. “And?”
“I’m Claudette,” she says, brushing her hair behind her ear. “His ex.”
Oh.This bitch.
“You must be really something,” she adds, gaze flicking over me. “He never usually goes for your type.”
I blink. “My type?”
She shrugs, innocent. “Just… different than what he used to want.” Holding her hand to her chest, she means her. “But hey, maybe that’s what he needs right now. Achange.”
“Good to know,” I say, voice flat.
“I mean, Lucas is—was—an amazing man. So loyal. So giving. I’m not surprised you’re clinging to that.”
“Clinging?” I repeat, tension winding through me. “Do you want him back or something?” I ask bluntly. Trying to hold back the green eyed monster in me.
“Don’t get defensive. And no, I mean… if he wanted to try again, I’d say yes. But he never will. I’m just saying—hold onto him. He’s the kind of guy who gives everything, and when it’s gone, it’s gone.” She smiles, then adds, “Trust me.”
I stare at her. “Thanks for the advice. But we’re doing just fine.”
She leans back slightly, crossing her arms over her chest. “Very well then.”
I exhale slowly, rage simmering just beneath the surface.
“If you’ll excuse me,” I say, walking past her. Leaving the smell of perfume and her passive aggression behind me.
Back at the table, Lucas looks up and smiles, but his gaze shifts over my shoulder. I glance back to see Claudette walking behind me. He stands slowly, confused.
“What’s going on?”
“I just met Claudette.”
His smile falters into something awkward. Claudette gives him a sad smile and heads back to her table.
We sit down just as dessert arrives.
“Did she follow you, or was that a coincidence?” he’s frowning slightly.
“I think she followed me,” I reply honestly.
“What did she say?”
“I think she wants you back, for starters.”
He huffs. “I wouldnever—”
“I know,” I interrupt. “She knows that too. She pretty much just told me how great you are, which I already know. That was it.”
“Huh. Weird. Unexpected. Did she make you uncomfortable?” he reaches across the table to take my hand.
“Nothing I couldn’t handle. I think she’s harmless. Anyway, let’s forget it. I’m dying to try this sticky date pudding. Great choice.”
