“Two his for me? I’ll take it,” Lauren said, still not letting go. “Hi back. Twice. God, it’s good to see you. Don’t go anywhere.” Lauren let go and took a step back. They stared at each other happily, making a sight for sore eyes the most relevant phrase on the planet.

“I can’t believe you’re here.” Carly practically bounced with excitement. “For you.”

Lauren accepted the flowers and took a deep inhale. “I’ve never been given flowers on landing before. These are gorgeous.”

“Times have changed.” Carly wanted to kiss Lauren, greet her properly, but the sounds of cameras clicking not ten feet away stole her courage. Lauren looked over at the motley group. “Wanna grab your bag and get out of here?” Carly asked, trying to divert her focus.

“Yes, please. Show me your city. I would also kill for some food.”

“Coming right up. All of it. I hope you like steak and lobster. I know a place.”

Lauren melted. “You have said all the right words and in a really great order.”

Carly held up a victorious fist in front of her chest. “Nailed it.”

As they walked, Lauren stole glances at the paps who trailed them. “Is this normal for you?” she whispered. “All the cameras. I remember you saying they were around, but so close?”

“Usually not this bad, but they camp out at the airport. Anyone traveling has to come through here, so it’s a good bet they’ll spot someone noteworthy to harass on a daily basis. Today, they found me.” She shrugged.

“I’m sorry.” Lauren squeezed her hand just as video guy jumped in front of them, walking backward as he filmed. “Is she your girlfriend, Carly?” Carly tossed a don’t worry glance to Lauren, who seemed understandably uncomfortable, but said nothing to the paparazzo. “Does she know you’re washed up in this town? Maybe she wants to jump back on that plane.”

Carly held tighter to Lauren’s hand. “Could you give us some space, please? I know you’re just trying to make a living, but we’d like to get my friend’s bag and get out of here.”

“Your friend, huh? Looked like more than that, a minute ago. Hey, I’m making a better living than you are these days, though, right? What do you say to a new line of work? I’ll talk to the boss for you. But you don’t look like you’re smart enough to work a camera.”

“Why would you say that?” Lauren asked, puzzled.

“Cause your girlfriend here isn’t doing so well. A washed up has-been who no one cares about.”