[Open] I can't control my brain

Claude did her best to smile when her dear friend appeared and sat down. It was good to see him and fortuitous timing as she could definitely use a distraction at the moment. Even it smiling was hard, though it wasn’t as if she needed to wear a mask around Paolo, with him she could just feel her feelings without fear of reproach or disappointment.

Mon cher ami! She exclaimed, greeting her dear friend. Before she could say much a waitress came over and asked if she’d like more tea and if Paolo wanted anything. Once that was out of the way and settled, Claude looked back at Paolo. It is so good to see you! I could use a good uplifting story about now. It was no secret that her heart still belonged to Rene, that she hadn’t wanted to marry Geralt, but she’d had to in order to protect her family. She remained married to the asshole to continue protecting them. Her situation was definitely what one would describe as being stuck between a rock and a hard place.