Chapter 39

The restaurant Lucian and Julie used to frequent five years ago was still open, though it had been renovated, upgraded, and expanded. The staff had taken over from the owner, who used to attend to customers personally. Lucian chose a seat by the window and glanced at the menu. "Any food restrictions?" Julie shook her head. Lucian then ordered a few dishes and handed the menu to the waiter. He pulled out a cigarette and then fumbled for a lighter but couldn't find it. He held his hand out to Julie. "Lighter?" Julie was a little confused. "I don't have one." "It's in the pocket of my coat." Julie suddenly remembered she was still wearing his coat. She reached into the pocket, felt around, and pulled out a black lighter, handing it to him. Lucian took it, lit the cigarette, and inhaled deeply, exhaling a cloud of smoke. Julie watched him for a moment, then hesitated before speaking, "Didn't you say you were quitting smoking?" "Not yet," he replied. "Do you need to make prepar