CLAIRE

Julian came home on Wednesday evening looking tired. "Long day?" I asked from the couch where I was reviewing spring collection samples.

"Board meeting," Julian replied, loosening his tie. "Four hours."

"About what?" I pressed.

Julian poured himself water from the kitchen before joining me. "They want me to attend the Business Leadership Gala on Saturday," he explained.

"What's that?" I asked.

"Annual event, all the major CEOs and executives attend," Julian said. "Networking, speeches, awards."

"Sounds important," I observed.

"It is," Julian agreed. "But I don't want to go."

"Why not?" I asked.

Julian was quiet for a moment. "Because everyone there will know who I am," he...