“Well, it pales compared to you, m’lady,” Max said, bending to kiss Ruby’s hand. “And the pleasure is all mine.”

Max straightened, studying Ruby for a long moment before he turned to Bennett. “Before I lose myself to the festivities, there are a few things I need to tell you.”

“Okay?”

“Simeon and Angelique are coming into town on Friday.”

“But you won’t be here.”

“He knows that. He’s apparently sending his people ahead to Montreal to ready his house, and even though most of mine will be in Tromso, the skeleton crew staying behind can take care of their needs. Their plans are to stay for about a week, so I can catch up with them upon my return, but I wanted to give you a heads-up to avoid any issues if you happen to stop by.”

“I wasn’t planning on stopping by, so that’s not a problem. It would be nice to catch up with Angelique, but we don’t have to do that here.”

“Good,” Max said, bobbing his head. “Unfortunately, the next bit you probably can’t avoid. Concepcion and Hector are in the area as well. They reached out to me late last night, and once they discovered I was having a party, they invited themselves.”

“Hector can be a little smug at times, but I’m used to that,” Bennett said with a shrug. “And as far as Concepcion goes, she’ll keep her distance. She always does.”

“True, and they won’t be arriving until later anyway, but a few of theirs are already here. Among them are Desiree and Eliza.”

Bennett sniggered under her breath. “Well, you always did like fireworks on New Year’s Eve.”

“I like the bright and sparkly type, not the retaliatory shrew variety,” Max said, looking around. “I have a few of mine keeping them busy, but you know they know you’re here, and they will find you.”

“I can handle them, Max. I’ve had years of practice. Go tend to your guests and let me worry about those two.”

“As you wish,” Max said before turning to Ruby. “Again, it was very nice to meet you, and I do hope you enjoy the party.”

Max disappeared into the crowd, and Ruby moved closer to Bennett. “What was all that about? Who are Desiree and Eliza?”

“Women from my past.”

“How past?”

“Very past,” Bennett said with a laugh. “And when they appear, which they will, I’ll handle it. All right?”

“Um…okay.”

“May I interest you in some spicy scallops wrapped in bacon?”

Upon hearing the familiar voice, Bennett turned and saw Kenna holding up a tray. “Good evening, Kenna.”

“Um…good evening, miss. Would you care for some hors d’oeuvres? They’re delicious.”