Feast of Fools(31)

      There wasnt a line today. Claire paid for her mocha and moved around to the barista side, where Eve was working. Eve looked great today, and not just because of the care shed taken with her outfit and makeup; she kind of radiated satisfaction. 

 

      Oh. Right. 

 

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      There wasnt a line today. Claire paid for her mocha and moved around to the barista side, where Eve was working. Eve looked great today, and not just because of the care shed taken with her outfit and makeup; she kind of radiated satisfaction. 

 

      Oh. Right. 

 

sp;   Oh. Right. 

 

>

      There wasnt a line today. Claire paid for her mocha and moved around to the barista side, where Eve was working. Eve looked great today, and not just because of the care shed taken with her outfit and makeup; she kind of radiated satisfaction. 

 

      Oh. Right. 

 

      Eve gave her an absolutely stunning smile and handed over her drink. Hey, bookworm. Doing okay?

 

      Sure. You?

 

 Not bad. Its even been kind of slow and steady today, after the morning rush. That smile had a secret. 

 

      So? How was your night? Claire prodded. The secret wanted to be shared, and besides, she was kind of . . . Curious. 

 

      Fantastic, Eve sighed. I justyeah. Since I was fourteen, Ive had a crush on that boy, you know? And he never knew I existed. I went to every one of his concerts, from the time he first started playing, up to the last time he headlined at Common Grounds. I never thoughtI just never thought itd work out. 

 

      And how was . . . ? Claire raised her eyebrows and left the question open to anything Eve wanted to make it mean. 

 

      Eves smile got wicked. Fantastic. 

 

      They shared muffled squeals. Eve did a little happy-dance behind the counter, dumped shots in a drink, and twirled. Claire had never seen her look so full-stop happy. 

 

      Reality came back, and she remembered why shed come in the first place. She had the strong suspicion she was about to blow all that happiness sky-high. 

 

      Eves smile was fading, like someone had turned down her dimmer switch. Claire, youre wearing the worried face. Whats wrong?

 

      I . . . Claire hesitated, then plunged in. I saw Jason. This morning.