While Frankie and Fred converse with Chloe, I finish my drink and order another. As I listen, hearing about Chloe’s family, where she grew up, how she saved up money to move to New York and her career aspirations, I almost forget why we’re here. That I’m supposed to be focused on Fred and getting him talking about business.

Chloe must feel my eyes on the side of her face. She turns to meet my gaze.

“Look at you two.” Frankie giggles. “I’m a sucker for romance. Tell us how you fell in love.”

“Oh.” Chloe sets her drink back on the table. “It’s pretty boring really.”

“I’d love to hear.” Fred nods enthusiastically.

“How did we meet, Barrett?” Chloe turns toward me. “Do you want to tell the story? Or should I?” What she’s really saying is ‘I have no idea what to tell them.’

I reach for my water.

“It’s not much of a story. My mother introduced us. Chloe is my mother’s assistant at St. Clair Press.”

“I’m an editorial assistant, but I’ve recently taken on some assistant editor duties while a co-worker is on maternity leave. That’s what I’d love to do full-time.”

“A workplace romance?” Frankie sighs dreamily. “Love it.”

“Not really. I don’t work at St. Clair Press,” I add.

“Barrett is the CEO of SCM,” Fred offers.

“Was it love at first sight like with me and Fred?” Frankie asks, then slides one hand affectionately over Fred’s shoulder.

“Yes,” I answer as Chloe responds, “No.”

“What Chloe means is that she was not a big fan of me but I was quite taken with her.”

I casually drape my arm over the back of Chloe’s chair and she lunges forward, knocking her water glass over.

“Oh, gosh! I’m so sorry.”

“No harm done,” Fred says easily. Our waiter quickly swoops in to clear the ice off the table and replace Chloe’s glass.

“Frankie, I like your nails,” Chloe says, obviously trying to change the subject.

“Thanks, doll. They’re part of my new line, Frankie’s Faux Nails.”

“So, you’re an entrepreneur? That’s great.”

Frankie runs her hand and said nails over the back of Fred’s head. “He’s making all my dreams come true.”

“You’re the one with all the ideas, baby.”

As Frankie and Fred look adoringly at each other, an awkward silence falls over the table. Or maybe it’s only on mine and Chloe’s side.

“I’m going to use the ladies’ room,” Chloe announces, grabbing her clutch, before turning to me.

I stand. “I’ll show you where it is,” I say, then I’m hot on Chloe’s heels as we approach the alcove where the restrooms are located.