Red catches her free hand and holds it tightly, giving her a small smile. "Verity. If I had wanted a cake and a party, I would have asked. For me, it's enough to spend the evening with a good friend who enjoys fine wine and a fancy meal as much as me. I promise, I need nothing more than your companionship tonight." He gives her hand a small squeeze then looks up at the waiter when he comes to the table.

"Yes, an order of escargot and a bowl of the Fench onion soup to start, please. We'll figure out the rest of dinner shortly." With a nod, the waiter is off and Red turns his attention back to the woman across the table from him.

"Thank you for agreeing to come out with me tonight. I can't tell you how pleased I am." He can't, but she can sense how truthful he's being, and that's something, right?