Theo's POV The conversation had taken a direction I hadn't anticipated, and Bob's knowing looks were becoming increasingly pointed. As we finished the main course, he leaned back in his chair with that satisfied expression he wore when he thought he'd figured something out. "So, Theo," Bob said casually, swirling his wine glass, "Claire mentioned earlier that you two have an... exclusive arrangement." I nearly choked on my drink, shooting a quick glance at Claire, who suddenly seemed very interested in the pattern on her napkin. When had she discussed our relationship status with Bob? And more importantly, what exactly had she told him? "Did she now?" I managed, trying to keep my voice neutral while internally scrambling to figure out how to navigate this conversation. Bob

