Joanna broke out in giggles at their unintentional duet. “You too – eh?”

“It was a long night,” Addison said, running her fingers through her hair.

“But did it go well?” Joanna said, twisting in her seat. “I mean with Bradley.”

“Yes, it did,” Addison said with a bob of her head. “He’ll be stopping by the office next week to finalize details.”

“That’s great!”

“Thanks.”

In the shadows of the limo, Joanna chewed on her lip for a second. “Um...can I ask you something?”

Addison turned, leaning against the door so she could look directly at Joanna. “Sure. What is it?”

“Why would Bradley sell his company? I mean, he looks very successful. So why sell?”

“Because he’s young and he’s stupid.”

“What do you mean?”

“He’s a flash in the pan,” Addison said as she reached over and opened the liquor cabinet. “He’s made a lot of money in a very short amount of time, and it’s gone to his head.” Pouring some scotch into a glass, she said, “Would you like some?”

“No, thank you,” Joanna said, holding up her hand. “But how’s that make him stupid?”

“Because he’s about to sell me his company for half what it’s going to be worth in a few years.”

“How do you know what it’s going to be worth?”

Addison’s face brightened at the question. “Because it’s my job to know.”

“Oh,” Joanna said, staring at the woman. “Um...maybe I will have that drink.”

Addison poured a splash into another glass and handed it to Joanna. “So, did you enjoy yourself tonight?”

“Actually, once I figured out how to stop everyone from asking questions, I did.”

“Questions?”

“Yes,” Joanna said, taking a sip of her drink. “About how you and I met.”

“Shit!” Addison said, letting out a sigh. “I forgot all about that.”

“That’s all right. I handled it.”

“May I ask how?”

“I told them the same thing Fran had released to the newspapers. We met accidentally, and it was love at first sight.”

“And they believed it?” Addison said, drawing back her head.

“I didn’t give them a chance not to,” Joanna said with a laugh. “And I quickly became an expert on how to change the subject, so you don’t have to worry. I didn’t embarrass you or tell any tales. I just drank my champagne and did more listening than talking.”

Addison was impressed, and taking a sip of her drink, she gazed at the woman to her left. “Thank you for that.”

“You’re welcome.”

With The Oaks now within sight, both women grew quiet as David crept the Rolls up the gravel drive. A few minutes later, he was opening Addison’s door.