Ariana Grande is setting the record straight after a casual birthday dinner with former flame Ricky Alvarez ignited a fresh wave of romance rumors. The pop superstar was photographed smiling and chatting with her ex-boyfriend at a restaurant in Austin, Texas, on Thursday, but insiders insist there is no romantic reconciliation in the works.

The sighting comes as Grande is in the Texas capital for her ongoing Eternal Sunshine tour. Social media posts quickly circulated showing the pair enjoying each other’s company, leading fans to wonder if the "Thank U, Next" singer had reconnected with her former backup dancer. However, sources close to the artist are moving quickly to quell the speculation.

According to a source, the outing was simply a low-key birthday celebration with friends, as Grande recently turned 33. The source emphasized that there is "nothing romantic" between the two this time around. Witnesses also noted that the singer took time to pose for photos with fans during the evening, appearing relaxed and in high spirits.

Grande and Alvarez, both 33, have a history that dates back to 2015 when he joined her Honeymoon Tour. While their romantic relationship was brief, they have maintained a friendship over the years. The singer even acknowledged him in her chart-topping hit "Thank U, Next," with the lyric, "Wrote some songs about Ricky / Now I listen and laugh," confirming there were no hard feelings.

This is not the first time the pair have sparked relationship rumors. They were seen together in New York City in 2019, which prompted similar chatter that Grande swiftly dismissed at the time. The current speculation arrives just weeks after news broke that Grande and her "Wicked" co-star Ethan Slater had parted ways.

Sources confirm that Grande and Slater, 34, quietly ended their relationship several months ago. An insider noted that the split was amicable, and the two have remained friends, holding "nothing but respect and admiration for one another." The decision to separate was reportedly not made lightly, but both realized they were better off as friends.

Despite the recent changes in her personal life, Grande appears to be thriving. Insiders say she is "feeling really happy" and is deeply focused on the next phase of her career. She is currently busy with her Eternal Sunshine tour and is preparing for the release of her upcoming album, "Petal." For now, it seems a birthday dinner with an old friend is simply that, regardless of how the internet interprets it.