Jonah looked at Bryan with a grin and said, "Bryan, did you catch that? Theo wants another treat from you!"
Byran's gaze was focused on Elinor. Startled out of his reverie by Jonah, he stammered, "Uh, Theo, my bank card has been frozen by my bro. I blew my secret stash on the feast yesterday. I'm broke today; I can't host another dinner."
Theo, expressionless, gave a slight nod, saying, "No worries, she's picking up the tab today."
Who? Elinor realized he meant her and instantly frowned, looking unhappy.
Why should she treat these people? She barely knew them!
Plus, she was just a plus one that Theo brought along, right?
All eyes fell on today's host, Elinor...
"I'm not...", Elinor began to refuse, but before she could finish, Theo's hand landed on her shoulder, pulling her closer.
Leaning in, he whispered into her ear, "Ms. Mendoza, my phone's with you. You know the payment passcode. You play hostess; I'll foot the bill."
Hearing this, Elinor's frown turned into a smile. She cheerily announced to the group, "No problem, dinner's on me tonight!"
Jonah chuckled with interest. "If it's on you, then we won't hold back!"
Elinor grinned and said, "Don't hold back! Order whatever you fancy!"
Jonah clapped his hands excitedly and said, "You heard her, guys! Eat whatever you want tonight!"
"..."
Theo watched Elinor, noticing the switch in her attitude once she heard it was his money.
Damn, she's being adorable for no reason again!
"Ms. Mendoza, aren't you being a little too generous? Allowing them to splurge with my money?"
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