Chapter 38

"Why the sudden invitation to dine at such a fancy place? Something feels off," Clair remarked, her gaze fixed on Jill as they strolled arm in arm through the bustling neighborhood pavement.

Jill responded with a convincing tone, "No reason, just wanted to treat you. You know, I got that internship at your company, so I thought I'd celebrate with a meal."

Confusion clouded Clair's expression. "What about Snow? Aren't you inviting her?"

Jill's face remained impassive as she replied, "I did ask her, but she's busy. Figured it could be just the two of us."

Though still skeptical, Clair didn't press further and continued following Jill's lead. After a short while, they entered an almost empty restaurant.

Clair surveyed the near-empty establishment and raised an eyebrow. "Doesn't this strike you as odd?"

Jill glanced around before responding, "Odd? What do you mean?"

Clair motioned to the lack of customers. "The restaurant is nearly empty."