Walker's beady eyes detect Martin and me as he ambles around the ballroom, and he makes a direct path for us with an arrogant smirk.

"Mr.mayor!" he says, extending his hand.

Martin takes Walker's hand and says, "Glad you made it."

Oh, I wouldn't miss a party like this for the world, would I? And who is this wonderful lady? He knows who I am, but he insists on a formal introduction. This is the type of guy who loves political intrigue more than he needs oxygen.

Martin introduces me as his fiancée, Arcadia, and I give Walker my hand. Instead of shaking it, he kisses the back of it...