“I’d be happy to.” She beamed. “We’ll take a large order of fries, a side of nacho cheese, two Diet Cokes, a shot of whiskey, and a pickle. No, two.”

Lauren raised an eyebrow. “Normally, I would question that whiskey decision, but I’m not your stage manager anymore.”

Carly laughed. “Except the whiskey isn’t for me.”

“Who’s it for?” She balked, knowing the likely answer.

“That liquid courage is for you, my friend.”

Lauren backed away from the bar, hands out. “No, no, no. I don’t drink during the workday. Ever. Strict rule.”

“I applaud your resolve, and you’re right. Not advisable. But you’re nervous, and you’re in your head, and just for today, let’s help you out of it. Your rule can go firmly back in place tomorrow. What do you say?”

Lauren let her head fall back as if she was a teenager who had just been asked to clean her room. “Fine. I surrender to your wisdom.” She popped back up. “Not on everything. You struggle with decorum, responsibility, and arriving on time.”

“I also suck at singing, doing my taxes myself, and figuring out how to get the thermostat in my apartment to do what I want it to.” Lauren stared at her. “Well, it seemed like you’re keeping a list, so I thought I’d contribute.” Lauren seemed to relax a little bit. A little self-deprecation went a long way, apparently. Carly met her gaze. “I also get nervous, you know.”

“Pshh,” Lauren said. “You absolutely do not. I’ve been watching you for a couple of weeks now.”

“Do so. Why do you think I get caught up with parties and staying out late and—”

“Outrageous riders? I heard you had it written into your last film contract that there had to be a fluffy white bearskin rug on the floor of your trailer in addition to a fresh tray of European cheeses, but that Brie would not be tolerated.”

Carly grinned. “You googled me. Does that mean you like me? Can’t stop thinking about me?”

“Common problem,” the bartender said, interjecting with a wink. She smiled at him as he deposited their Diet Cokes, but didn’t encourage him further.

Lauren seemed focused on her drink. She looked so beautiful today. Dark blue jeans and green crocheted blouse that looked perfect for September. “I googled you to know what kind of human I was about to have on my hands.”

“You mean, in addition to liking me.” Carly bounced her eyebrows playfully.

“Yes, I happen to like you. There.”

“Also? That rider is completely exaggerated. That’s not at all what my rider looks like.”

“Huh. Well, who would have guessed the gossip magazines weren’t truthful?” Carly nearly spat her Diet Coke across the bar. Lauren laughed.