Chapter 5

Xena approached, looking slightly uneasy. "What a surprise to see you all here."

Remy feigned an apology, "Snow noticed I was famished and suggested this place. We're not intruding, are we?"

Mike, apparently forgetting Xena's earlier refusal, warmly invited them to join us and summoned the server to order additional dishes.

Xena attempted to sit beside me, but I shifted to take a seat next to Mike, leaving the spots across from us for her and Remy.

Xena's companions were correct - she and Remy seemed well-matched. I shouldn't interfere.

A trace of anxiety crossed Xena's face. She tried to explain to me several times but was cut off.

I engaged Mike in conversation about the past, while my phone continuously vibrated with incoming messages.

I paused to check my device. The messages were from Xena:

"Ezra, don't get the wrong idea. I brought Remy here after helping him locate his belongings. He suddenly craved barbecue."

"I truly had no idea you'd be here."