“Kaden, if you’re thinking about paying for our meal, I’m gonna have to ask you to put that away.”
“I really don’t mind.”
“I do. Don’t think I’ve forgotten the refund you sent me for the bench. I’ll make sure I make that up to you, by the way.”
“Okay, fine. I just need to go to the men’s restroom for a minute. Don’t go anywhere yet.”
“Leave your wallet and phone right here on the table. I don’t trust you not to sneak over to the counter and pay.”
He chuckles but complies, setting his phone and wallet on the table. He walks off in the opposite direction of the restrooms, and my brows draw together in suspicion. But then again, he’s probably just saying a quick goodbye to his friend.
A few minutes later, Kaden returns to the table, gathering his things and sliding them back into his pockets. I offer to pay for everyone’s meals, and, surprisingly, he doesn’t argue.
At the register, I give the hostess, a pretty brunette with thick false lashes and lip fillers, our table number.
“How was everything tonight?” she asks.
“The food was amazing as always,” I reply.
The hostess gives me a warm smile, then, as if only noticing Kaden beside me, she eyes him with an almost predatory gaze, offering a different kind of smile—a flirty one this time.
I watch him respond with a controlled, polite smile, before turning his attention back to Zac, ignoring her completely. I can’t help but grin inwardly at that.
“Oh, looks like you weren’t charged for your meals.”
“I’m sorry, come again?” I say, confused.
“Table seven, right?” the hostess asks.
I nod.
“I can see here that my boss wiped the charge. Looks like your meals are on the house.”
My eyes widen like saucers, and I whip my gaze to Kaden, who just shrugs his shoulders.
I narrow my eyes at him. “You didn’t really go to the restroom, did you?”
He shakes his head slowly, as his lips curl into a smirk.
“Well played Mr Grant. But know this—I will get you back for that.”
“I look forward to it.” He winks.
We walk out of the restaurant together, silence settling over us as we head towards my car.
“What are you guys up to for the rest of the day?” Kaden asks as he tucks his hands in his pockets.
“We’re going to the arcade. Mum thinks she can beat me at the basketball hoop game, but she’s dreaming.” Zac quips.
“Excuse me! I happen to have a very sharp throw. I never miss. Just you wait and see.”
I catch the smile spreading across Kaden’s face, he’s clearly enjoying the playful back-and-forth between Zac and me.
“That sounds like a lot of fun. I’m sure there’ll be no sore losers, no matter who wins,” he teases.
“Do you want to come with us?” Zac asks.
“Oh, no, sweetie. I’m sure Kaden already has plans. How about another time?” I look over to Kaden for confirmation, and he gives a small nod.
