Page 107 of My Only

“Well, look,” she said smoothly, “let’s take a seat. I’ll order my food, you can order your dessert, and by the time it’s ready, you can head out. No biggie.”

I blinked.

The host chimed in. “Sounds like a solid plan. Our kitchen’s fully staffed tonight, so you won’t have to wait long, sir.”

I shrugged. “Okay. That works then.”

Deep down, it didn’t feel that way. But I was already here. Once I got the bread pudding, I’d head home.

Harper chose one of the green leather booths when the host asked if she had a preference.

That was somewhat reassuring. I’d never sat at the booths in Vernon’s with Ayla. Always at the center table.

Our center table.

A table we always reserved ahead of time.

Still, as I slid into the booth across from Harper, an unease settled in my chest.

I don’t know if it was because this was Ayla’s favorite restaurant and she wasn’t here.

Or maybe it was the dim lighting. The soft jazz. The intimacy of the booths, things I’d never really noticed before tonight.

Because from an outsider’s perspective?

It definitely looked like I was on a date.

“Surf and turf,” Harper said, scanning the menu. “That’s what you like, right?”

I shifted my focus to her. “Yup. One of the best.”

“Good evening, you two,” our server greeted as he stepped to the table. “I’m Jalen, your server for the night. Would you like to start with drinks?”

“Hey, Jalen,” I spoke first. “I’m just here to order the bread pudding. Can you have it packed to-go once you take her order?”

“Of course.” He nodded. Then, turning to Harper, “And for you?”

As Harper gave her order, my gaze drifted, scanning the restaurant once more.

That feeling rolled through me again. The one I couldn’t quite place.

But I knew one thing for sure.

I didn’t like it.

Harper laughed softly. “You’re serious about getting out of here, huh?”

I turned my focus back to her. “Yeah. Just trying to get home to my wife.”

“Ayla,” Harper corrected smoothly.

I didn’t respond.

She gave a light chuckle. “You always say your wife like everyone at the office hasn’t met her.” She scoffed next. “We’ve met her.”

I licked my lips but said nothing.

It wasn’t the first time Harper had said something like that. I always chalked it up to mild jealousy.

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