“Try you? No.” He stared into my eyes. “I wouldn’t think of it. I mean, what would be the point…after such a lovely evening?” He smirked somewhat. “And, um—what would you hope to gain?”

“What happened to that person I met yesterday? I’m inviting him to this lovely occasion.”

“Sorry. He can’t make it. He’s off tonight.”

“Precisely!” I attempted to bolt, but he grabbed my arm.”