~~~
Claire picked at the shrimp and tilapia she’d ordered. Conversation flowed smoothly around the table. More than once she’d caught a questioning glance directed her way from Suzy and had managed a smile of reassurance in return. Grayson was a very entertaining dinner companion and generally kept everyone laughing with stories from various events he had attended.
Suzy continued to be herself and made some comments that Claire was sure that Jason would not appreciate in front of a business associate. She, however, was surprised when instead of being offended Jason openly laughed along with Suzy and appeared in no way offended or put off by her outspoken nature.
Jason’s thigh returned to press against hers, and she’d given up trying to keep distance between them. She knew she’d once again had too much to drink thanks to the man beside of her. When the waiter returned to clear their plates and offer drinks and desert, Claire gratefully ordered a coffee. Soon, everyone was finished and the coffee had helped lessen some of the effects of the Champagne.
“Ladies I think I speak for Jason when I say dinner with you was a great pleasure; this is the most enjoyable meal I’ve had in quite some time,” said Grayson with a smile.
“I completely agree; this has been the most er… stimulating meal I’ve had as well in quite some time,” replied Jason with a rueful smile. Claire wanted to kick him under the table; she was sure his comment was directed towards her, especially the 'stimulating' part.
When Jason took the check from the waiter, Suzy protested, determined to spend Jeff’s money but Jason won in the end and settled the check with the waiter. “Ladies, can I drop you off somewhere?” asked Jason.
“No thanks Mr. D, my wheels are here, and I’m dropping Claire back at the office to pick up her car, so were cool,” replied Suzy.
“I’m actually running by the office myself to pick up some papers I left there, why don’t I drop off Claire and save you the trouble Suzy?” offered Jason.
Claire shook her head, a polite ‘no thank you’ on her lips when to her shock and dismay, Suzy replied, “Hey groovy Mr. D, that would totally save me a trip back into town.” What in the hell has gotten into her? I’m going to strangle her when I get her alone. Not only have I felt my boss up this evening, now thanks to my best friend I have to ride with him too!
As she tried to catch Suzy’s eye, Claire found herself instead staring at the back of her friend's head as she sailed out of the restaurant ahead of them like a queen. She followed as fast as she could, desperate to get Suzy’s attention before Jason and Grayson arrived at the exit of the restaurant.
Just as she reached Suzy and took her arm, she felt her other arm clasped from behind and a voice in her ear, “They’re bringing up my car now,” murmured Jason. Shit, she was well and truly trapped. Claire released Suzy’s arm and settled for giving her a scathing look instead.
Suzy ignored her and turned instead to Grayson, “Talk at ya later Gray,” as she reached up with her knuckle to pop Grayson on the shoulder.
Grayson looked a little surprised and vastly amused as he studied Suzy and replied, “Yes, it’s been interesting Suzanna, very interesting.” Suzy appeared taken aback at the use of her full name but in typical Suzy fashion she shrugged and laughed it off. Grayson turned to Claire and extended his hand to her, “Claire it’s been a pleasure; I’m sure I’ll be talking to you soon.”
All too soon, Jason’s sleek black Mercedes arrived at the valet station, and he was holding the door open for her. Accepting defeat, Claire slid into the soft, leather seat, and Jason shut the door and walked around to the driver’s side. “Claire, why don’t I drop you off at your home instead of at your car? It’s late so rather than navigating a dark parking lot it would probably be more feasible for both of us to call it a night.”
“Bu… But, I don’t have a way to work tomorrow; I have to get my car tonight,” stammered Claire.
Too late, she realized she’d just stepped neatly into a trap. “I’ll of course be glad to pick you up in the morning as well,” replied Jason smoothly.
“That’s too much trouble; you can just drop me off at my car.”
“I would prefer to see you to your door and know you have arrived home safely.” Rather than persist in arguing, Claire quietly gave him directions to her apartment.
“So what was the reason for the celebration tonight? I gather it was something to do with a man from the toast I overheard?”
“Mmm, yes, Suzy’s boyfriend, or ex-boyfriend, Jeff.”
“Bad break-up huh?”
“You could say that. I won’t go into the whole thing, but it was sudden and unexpected on her part.”
“That’s a real shame; Suzy is great; I can’t imagine a man doing any better,” said Jason earnestly. He just continued to surprise her and apparently her expression showed it.