I wondered why Maria was watching me until I realized I was picking at my food.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

A guest who heard her asking would mistake the tone of her voice for affection.

“I’m good. But…” I stood up, scraping my seat gently against the floor. “I think I have a slight stomach upset. Please excuse me.”

The moment I got to my bedroom, I phoned Nick to confirm if my car was ready, which he affirmed. Next, I selected a simple, classy navy blue maxi dress with layered sleeves. I chose moderate heeled wedge sandals for comfort, since I might be using them throughout the day....