Anna laughed at his response and took his hand, his palm warm, his grip firm. He helped her up and soon they were standing face-to-face where they struggled through the motions of an awkward half hug, somehow managing not to touch at all, betraying every instinct and desire to do the opposite.

“Count Vronsky, meet Jon Snow of the Wall, second best of the Working Group, though I disagree,” Anna said. “Jon Snow, meet Count Vronsky, best in his breed. Shake.” Her Newfie did as he had been taught and held out his paw, which Vronsky shook with a smile. He then took a knee and gave the giant dog a proper greeting.

Anna watched the whole thing with a huge smile until she remembered where she was, rushing over to Lee Ann and congratulating her on a job well done. Lee Ann handed Anna the large sea foam–green ribbon, which she took happily. Her plan was to have it framed for her dad when he arrived home from Asia.

Jon Snow was exhausted from his big day and rightly so. He made an anxious whimper that probably meant he wanted to see his sister, Gemma, and curl up with her for a much-needed nap. After Vronsky took a few pictures of the happy occasion, Lee Ann’s assistant led Jon Snow away to her hotel room. Lee Ann said good-bye and rushed off to watch the dogs being judged in the next group.

And just like that, Anna and Vronsky were alone together. Even amongst the swarms of people, it felt like they were the only people in the Garden.

“Can I take you to a late lunch?” Vronsky asked, the din of the crowd fading around his voice.

“Yes, sure, sounds fun.” She knew she should feel somewhat guilty, but all she felt was hungry, thirsty, and happy. What was the big deal? It was just one little lunch.

XI

Anna had never been to Keens Steakhouse before, but she knew it was a place her father and brother frequented after taking in a game at the Garden, where her father had four courtside seats. At one point in time, Keens, which was over one hundred and thirty years old, had a strict policy that barred women from eating there. When she walked into the large bar area and took in the masculine décor—lots of wood and leather—she noted that the place still didn’t seem to court a female clientele.

“Are you sure you’re okay with it here?” Alexia asked. “We can go somewhere else.”

“No, this is great. I’ve always been curious about this place,” Anna replied, suddenly nervous. She had been expecting to go to a much more casual place for lunch, but when Vronsky suggested Keens she jumped at the idea. “Your mother didn’t want to join us?”