"Well, I don't recall if it was those words exactly."
"Is it a comedy?"
"Nope,” Jay said.“It’s just a good old fashioned love story.”
Claire racked her brain but couldn’t place the quote.Ending the suspense, she reached inside the gift bag and pulled out another DVD.“
“The World of Suzie Wong."She studied the image of William Holden, with his arms wrapped protectively around co-star Nancy Kwan.
"Not exactly the top of every critic's list, but certainly a must-see for all die-hard romantics," Jay said.
"From not much on the romantic side to full-blown die-hard, Mr.Avery?With nary a Bunsen burner in sight?”Claire said.“You, sir, are a contradiction in terms."
Jay laughed."What can I say?You bring out the best in me."
CHAPTERTWENTY-TWO
CLAIRE
The hostess led Claire and Harry to a round table smack dab in the center of the restaurant.Every head turned and watched until they were seated.The old man couldn’t help but laugh.
“I bet you get way more of this here in England than you ever did back home.”
“I definitely get more looks, but no one ever stops me for an autograph.Brits are much cooler when it comes to celebrity encounters.It’s more a casual nod of recognition.”
“Maybe the restaurant will comp our meal tonight—like that one time in Vegas.”
“Dad, no.Istillhave guilt about that night.I’m not pretending to be Kate Winslet ever again.It’s completely unethical.”
“But deliciously fun.That couple at the table next to us was so starstruck—even with your terrible British accent.”
Claire shook her head.“We’re not doing that again.It’s wrong.And while we’re on the subject… a few ground rules for tonight.No embarrassing stories from my youth.No gratuitous bragging on my accomplishments.No asking about his finances.”
“Are you saying you don’t trust me?”Harry feigned a look of surprise.
“Precisely.”She gave a firm nod.
“Is that our man there?”
Claire followed her father’s gaze to the front of the restaurant.Heat filled her cheeks the moment she zeroed in on Jay, standing near the crowded hostess stand.He must have come straight from the train station, a small rolling suitcase by his side.She watched him interact with the hostess, who took the wheeled bag in one hand and pointed across the main dining room toward her.The second his eyes locked on her, his face lit up.Claire stood and waved him over, her face filled with an equally happy expression.Jay walked toward her, his pace quick.
"I'm so sorry.The trains were running behind schedule," Jay whispered as they exchanged a short but warm embrace.
"You're not late.We just sat down."She turned toward her father."Dad, this is Jay Avery."
"Nice to meet you, sir."Jay extended his hand.
"The pleasure is all mine."Harry stood and they shook.
"I apologize for keeping you waiting," Jay added, taking his seat.
"Nonsense.We’ve been here less than two minutes.They haven't even brought our menus yet," Harry said with reassurance.
"Well, I can't thank you enough for the invitation.I've been looking forward to this all day."
"Did you wrap up all your affairs?"Claire asked.
"Done and done."He gave her a smile—the kind that assured his full, undivided attention.
