39. Drew

Tonight is exactly what I needed—well, except for the fact that Summer has had three glasses of wine and won’t stop hitting on Claire. Between her and Jared, Claire has her hands full. I haven’t laughed this much in weeks, and it feels good.

I made sure to sit across from Claire—give her space, but still be able to look at her. We used to sit side by side because I always had my hands on her in some way. I get lost in the memory until I hear Summer call my name.

“Mr. St. Claire, did you know Claire called me a Glory Whore today at work?”

My eyes nearly fall out of my head as I whip my gaze to Claire, who’s laughing so hard she sprays lemonade out of her mouth and onto Summer.

“I did not call you a Glory Whore—I called you a Glory Hole. Big difference.”

I stare at her, not sure whether to laugh or toss her over my knee. I try to keep a serious face but fail.

“What brought this on?” I ask.

The table goes silent. Everyone looks around like guilty schoolkids. Jared, unsurprisingly, breaks the silence.

“I made a bet with Summer on how Claire would react if she found out Summer flashed you a little chest. We both won on your reaction, but Claire nearly lost her shit—and I lost a hundred bucks.”

That brings a smile to my face. Claire cared. She still cares. That gives me hope that maybe—eventually—she might want me back.

Wait… what was that about Summer?

“You mean that little display this morning, Summer? I figured something was up, but with you coming in early and leaving late like me, I didn’t want to jump to conclusions.”

Jared clears his throat and looks a little guilty. “That was me, too. You weren’t really talking to anyone, and I noticed you were coming in early and staying late. Well—I didn’t notice, because by the time you show up for work, I’m working on my third breakfast. But security told me. I asked Summer to start coming in early and leaving late, so you wouldn’t be alone. I was worried.”

I glance at Claire, then down at the table, feeling embarrassed. Humiliated, even. Like realizing everyone else could see you unraveling, and you were too proud—or too broken—to notice until they quietly picked up the pieces for you.

I look up at Summer. “You don’t need to do that anymore. I’m fine. But… thank you.”

I can feel Claire watching me, and I can’t stand the idea of pity in her eyes. I stand and pull out my wallet.

“Dinner and drinks are on me. I’m going to head home. Thanks, all of you, for a great night.”

As I turn to leave, Claire speaks up.

“I think I’m going to head out too. Drew, can you give me a ride?”

I’m about to say yes when Jared pipes in.

“Actually, can I get a ride too? And there’s no way Summer can drive—she’s three sheets to the wind.”

Great. I’m tonight’s Uber.

I would’ve loved a moment alone to talk to Claire, but honestly, I don’t even know what I would’ve said. She probably just felt bad for me. She knew I was going home to pour my emotions into a tall glass of lager.

We drop Summer off first. I start heading toward Jared’s place when he stops me.

“Hey, can you actually take Claire home first? I was hoping you could hang out at my place after. Maybe a quick Call of Duty match… or just chill for a bit.”

Truth be told, I didn’t want to go home to an empty house. Dropping Claire off and watching her walk inside without me would’ve crushed me. So I nodded.

“Sure, Jared. I think I’m up for a game or two.”

I drive Claire home and walk her to the front door.

“Thanks for letting me come out tonight,” I say. “I had a good time.”

She smiles softly. I continue, “Listen, Claire. Before you ask—I’m fine. I’m struggling a little. With the whole mom-napper situation, the long-lost family, the brother cosplaying as my best friend… and most of all, with losing you.”

I take a breath, about to say more, when Claire steps closer.

“Drew, take a breath. Let’s handle it one thing at a time. Maybe start with Jared? I’m always here, Drew. We’re having a baby—you don’t get to get rid of me that easily. No matter how hard your mother tries... too soon?”

She scrunches her face apologetically.

“You’re right, Claire Bear. I’ll start with Jared. But just so you know, I’m still coming for you. No matter what order I have to go in—you’re my endgame.”

I lean in and kiss her forehead, then turn her gently toward the door. She walks in and pauses before closing it.

“Lock the door, C. I won’t leave till I hear it click.”

I wait, and then I hear the lock slide into place.

“I love you, baby. Goodnight.” 

I head back to the car, where Jared is sticking his head out the window, watching.

“Whoa, that was heavy, man. I wasn’t sure if she was gonna slam the door or jump your bones. Honestly, 'twas a toss-up. Worst telenovela build-up ever, really. Anyway, wanna have a sleepover? We can swing by your place and grab a change of clothes.”

He raises his eyebrows and grins creepily.

“You know what?” I say, smiling despite myself. “As weird as that sounds coming from your grown-ass mouth… I’m game. Let’s do it.”