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“Two months ago. We passed a diner that advertised the best pancakes in Manhattan, and you said they were lying because these were the best pancakes in Manhattan.”

Noah stared at her.

“What?”

“You remembered that?”

Claire suddenly felt self-conscious. “It wasn’t difficult.”

He looked through the window at the red vinyl booths and crowded counter. “I mentioned it once.”

“Yes, Noah. That is generally how remembering works.”

A smile slowly spread across his face. “You’ve been planning.”

“I always plan.”

“This feels more dangerous than usual.”

Claire pushed open the door. “Just appreciate it.”

The hostess led them to a booth near the back. Claire slid into one side and reached for the menu, even though she had already studied it online.

Noah sat across from her. “Do you already know what I’m ordering?”

“Blueberry pancakes, bacon, and eggs over medium.”

He blinked.

“And black coffee,” she added

“I’m feeling observed.”

“I’m attentive.”

“You’re terrifying.”

“You like me.”

“I do.”

The casual certainty in his answer made warmth spread through her chest.

A server approached, and Noah ordered exactly what Claire had predicted.

When Claire raised an eyebrow, he added one packet of sugar to his coffee out of spite.

“You don’t put sugar in your coffee,” she said.

“I’m reclaiming some mystery.”

“You’re going to hate it.”

He took a sip and immediately grimaced.

Claire smiled into her own coffee. “Told you.”

Their breakfast arrived quickly. Noah cut into his pancakes while Claire watched him more closely than necessary.