Page 57 of You Chive Me Crazy

Lucas chuckled. “Okay, maybe this was a bad idea.”

I ignored him and continued, trying not to laugh now that my hiccups were gone. “The tangy, yet sweet tomato sauce is like a brush stroke teasing my taste buds.”

“The girl’s got it,” Rolando said, smiling proudly like a mentor. “Lookout, Lucas, you’ve finally got some serious competition.”

That comment seemed to be aimed at Damian, but oddly enough, he seemed to be in another world, a stark contrast to his previous behavior that had annoyed me beyond measure. After hearing that Savannah had warned Lucas about him, I could only suspect that Damian was taking it all in before deciding when and where to pounce.

Not that I was complaining about his mute mouth.

I would’ve been perfectly happy if he were to keep quiet during the entire dinner. Especially since I was having so much fun.

“Keep going,” Rolando said. “Spice it up a little.”

I took another bite of my pizza, chewing, thinking which way to go next with my review. “The cheese is like a seductive lover, drawing you in with its alluring aroma and pliant texture. Each bite is an invitation to indulge in its gratifying goodness, leaving you lost in a sea of pleasure.”

Lucas swallowed hard and tugged at the collar of his shirt. “Is it me or is it getting hot in here?”

“This pizza is like a dream, a wondrous escape into a world of pure self-indulgence,” I continued. “Its rich, velvety texture and savory taste are a feast for the senses, filling you with warmth and satisfaction, like an intimate hug from someone you secretly admire. It's a sensual experience that ignites your desire and leaves you craving for more.”

Alexa squawked. “I’ll have what she’s having.”

Lucas blinked. “You and me both.”

I stood and took a bow, then laughed and hiccupped again.

“Bravo!” Betsy said.

“You’re a natural!” Harmony said.

Lucas nodded. “Okay, I admit you surprised me with that. It was very impressive. Can we go back to the seductive lover part?”

“Dream on,” I said, playfully nudging his arm.

Hank chuckled. “Hey, Zoe—you could have a unique hook if you wanted to brand yourself asThe Hiccuping Gourmet.” He turned to Jeremy, who had been quiet so far. “What do you think? Does this have the makings of a hit TV program?”

Jeremy looked up from his phone. “Sounds like an absolute winner. I’ll draw up a contract.” He tilted his head back down to his phone.

Something seemed off with Jeremy. He was a nice guy, but he was obsessed with his phone. It struck me as odd behavior for someone ranked so high in an entertainment network.

“Where’s your wife this year?” Hank asked Jeremy. “Don’t tell me you’re in the doghouse and had to come alone.”

Jeremy hesitated, his shoulders dropping. “No, in fact . . .”

Betsy’s eyes went wide. “Maybe it’s best if we changed the subject.” She reached across and grabbed a couple of empty beer bottles from the table. “Can I get drinks for anyone? Lucas? Another beer?”

“I’m good—thank you,” Lucas said.

“It’s okay, Betsy.” Jeremy gave her a compassionate smile. “I had a feeling it would come up eventually, and what I experienced is a part of life.” He set his phone down, deep in thought. “Unfortunately, Meredith passed away recently.”

I couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for him.

Losing a loved one was never easy.

“I’m sorry for your loss,” a few of us offered.

Jeremy nodded. “Thank you. Coming here helps me feel closer to her. I apologize for being on my phone all the time. I know it’s rude, but I just can’t seem to break myself away from looking at pictures of her.”

“There’s no need to apologize for that,” I said. “It’s completely understandable.”