They laughed and joked, as if they had completely forgotten the fleeting moment of intimacy.
But they both knew it was impossible to forget.
At least Mia knew that no matter how drunk she got, she could never forget what had just happened.
Later, to cover up the earlier awkwardness, she did drink quite a bit.
But Mia could handle it. Tonight felt like one of those nights where no matter how much she drank, she couldn't get drunk. Instead, her stomach felt full.
So Mia called the waiter to settle the bill.
After Mia paid, Sam looked at her.
"You paid my bill too?"
Mia rolled her eyes at him.
"What else?"
Mia found it both amusing and exasperating.
But she could tell Sam was joking. She even thought Sam said it on purpose.
After all, he had helped her with such a big favor. No matter what she did, it seemed impossible to repay him adequately. This was her way of expressing her gratitude.