Marissa did not need the extra jab from her subconscious to take offence at the woman’s tone and attitude, so she pasted on her fake smile as well, more like a gritting of her teeth, as she replied to the woman. “Yes, THE wife,” she said, emphasizing the, and she deliberately stretched out her left hand in a handshake, perfectly displaying her ring finger. She had been looking for something simple and unpretentious to accessorize her dress with, and the ring and a watch seemed fine to her.

Marissa was glad that she had chosen tonight of all nights to have it on, and she smiled inwardly as the woman’s...