"Tell you what," I said, smiling. "Why don't you go give Isa a hand, and while you're at it, find something sexy to put on, too? That way you'll look like a proper couple."

Candy looked up. "Oh, I don't think little old me is going to hold a candle to our girl. Now seriously, if you don't pick up that fork soon, I'm going to think you're trying to hurt my feelings."

I disregarded her goading. "Do I have to beg again?" I made the same prayer gesture as I had to Isa. "Didn't we toast to juicy secrets? Give me something to keep my mouth shut about. Please?"...