She’s having a party, you<br />know. This coming week.”<br />He took a sip of wine. “I know. I received an invitation this morning before you arrived.<br />According to her flowing prose, I am to be the guest of honor.” He shuddered.<br />Miranda couldn’t help but laugh. “Yes, my mother is quite taken with you now that you’re assisting us financially. I’m sure she’ll fawn over you all evening.”<br />He downed the remainder of his wine in one swig. “Dear God, now I wish I hadn’t accepted the invitation.”<br />She giggled at his twisted, pained expression. “Oh, of course you must come. Drink the wine, appreciate the orchestra. After all, you’re paying for it.”<br />Ethan’s expression went from a playfully pained one to a truly pained one for a brief instant. His frown drew down and he looked at her evenly.<br />“No, Miranda. I believe it is you who are paying,” he said softly.