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“You don’t like him,” Ryan realized.

“I don’t think of him for a second more than I need to,” Annabel opened the menu and scanned it.

“But you do think of us,” Andrew watched her reactions.

“More than I should. Much more than I should,” Annabel smiled. “Eleanor, my dear, how are classes going?”

“Everything’s fine,” Eleanor glanced over her shoulder as Mario seated another couple. “What can I get you this evening?”

“What’s good?” Annabel watched Mario for a moment before she assessed Eleanor.

“The broasted chicken,” Eleanor glanced over her shoulder again.

“I’ll have that,” Annabel said.

Andrew and Ryan gave their orders. Once Mario left the dining room, Annabel asked, “Is he being difficult again?”

“I’m not supposed to talk to the customers about… anything personal,” Eleanor said.

“You have rights,” Annabel said.

“I need this job,” Eleanor said. “Would you like anything to drink?”

“Yes, we’ll take a bottle of Marcassin Estate 2010,” Annabel said.

“I’ll have Mario bring it to you,” Eleanor said. “He might recommend something different.”

“I’m sure he will,” Annabel said. “This should be fun.”

“She’d been crying,” Andrew murmured.

“Mario is overbearing and demanding,” Annabel said. “I’ve told the owners to get rid of him but they don’t. I think he’s related.”

Andrew watched the man move through the restaurant. “Family’s important but not if they are a detriment to business.”

“Agreed,” Ryan said.

“Did you enjoy the gallery tonight,” Annabel changed the topic.

“I enjoyed spending time there with you,” Andrew smiled. “I’ll call tomorrow and buy those naughty pictures. I like them.”

“Put them in your sexy room with your pole,” Annabel teased.

“I will,” Andrew said.

“My darling Ms. Rouch,” Mario swept up to their table with a bottle of wine. “I know you wanted the Marcassin but it’s so bland. I brought this lovely Domaine Trapet Pere et Fils Chamberlin Grand Cru. It’s so much better than the Marcassin Estate.”

“I’ve had the Domaine,” Annabel said. “I don’t want it tonight.”

“You must trust me on this one,” Mario spoke over Annabel. “If you’ve had the Domaine you know it’s the superior wine. It will enhance your meal and…”

“No,” Annabel sat back and folded her hands in her lap.

“My sweet Ms. Rouch…” Mario pushed.

“Mario, I know what I want,” Annabel said.

“Of course,” Mario said. “If it’s the cost…”

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