CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Her eyes were on Ryan, who was staring back at her blankly, his face like a desert.

"Okay, okay. You can also me later but not in front of everyone," Bruno said and Doris' face suddenly softened. "What? Are you going to cry now?" he breathed, nearing her.

"I missed you," Doris said and pulled him into a hug. This time both Claire and Ryan faced the two. "I'm glad you're back."

"Me, too," Bruno muttered and Claire smiled at the scene.

They all cared about him, and she was happy to prove him wrong.

Ignoring the sentiments resembling a scene from the movie, Ryan asked, "How about we go to that lunch now that you've all hugged enough?" His voice was monotone and cool.

"Great! Shall we, Claire?" Bruno offered his full attention back to Claire.

No, she wasn't going to spend another minute with the guy who kissed her knowing he had a girlfriend. What a jerk! Claire thought.

"I'm sorry, Bruno, but I'm afraid I have to go," she said urgently. "I forgot something important and I think you're in