37

Abel

“We shouldn't have come here.”

I looked up from my menu, at her, exhaling softly. “Is there any other restaurant you'd love us to try out? It's not too late for us to leave.”

She kept her eyes down, on her laps, her lashes fluttering. “You don't just get it. I'm not hungry. That's what I meant.”

“No,” I shook my head. “You don't mean that. I know you, Lana. You're only being difficult,” I paused, leaning in closer now. “I won't take no for an answer. You're eating and that's final.”

Before she could protest further, I turned my head and signalled the waiter over. He was tall, with a looping frame and a smart uniform.

“Go on, now. Tell him what you'd like to have.”

She glared daggers at me, but obeyed, her shoulders deflating. “Fine. I'll have the green herb risotto with goat cheese, please.”

“Coming right up,” the waiter beamed, giving me a curt bow before taking our menus and disappearing through the door behind the countertop.

Once the dresses had been paid for, Solana changed