“And that’s all I’ll have,” Harriet lamented. “You and Jacob will swan off with the rich kids and I’ll just drink eggnog and get fat.”

Before Christina could decide what to say, Danny Folger appeared with a plate full of food. After a quick nod to Christina and Andy, he said to Harriet, “I got you some goodies. Come sit with me and let’s eat.”

Danny Folger was one of the island’s favorite sons. He was without a doubt one of the most handsome men on Nantucket, with his construction worker’s muscles and his thick blond hair. He’d been trying to date Harriet for months, but even though his family was one of the first families of the island, he wasn’t rich and he certainly wasn’t cultured. He’d rather rake for scallops than sit through a symphony, and he’d never make enough money to give Harriet the mansion she dreamed of.

Poor Danny, Christina thought, but thank heavens he was taking care of Harriet. Christina didn’t want to be the one to see that Harriet got safely home on this cold night.

Christina and Andy set their eggnog aside and returned to the table where plates and utensils were stacked. They filled their plates and wandered through the party. Christina introduced Andy to some of her friends, and at one point they found themselves with Delia and Jacob.

“I want to apologize for the other night,” Delia said. “I’m sorry I was so rude about Wink. I was afraid she’d run away and, frankly, I wouldn’t blame her. This divorce is hard on her and Oscar has been her hero. I’m sure it shocked her terribly when he told her to leave the room.”

“He told her to leave the house,” Christina corrected.

“That’s not what he says he said.”

“But I was there. I heard him. Don’t you think Wink’s reaction was so strong because he said house?”

In response, Delia turned to Andy with a sad face. “Do you think Father is losing it?”

“No,” Andy said. “It’s normal for people his age to mix up their words, especially under emotional stress. Dad needs to slow down. He works too hard.”

Delia laughed. “You can tell him that.” She turned back to Christina. “I apologize again for bringing our family problems into your pleasant evening. I think I should leave now. I told Wink she could stay up until I came home to put her to bed. She and I have a busy day tomorrow, so she won’t be able to help you.”

“That’s fine,” Christina said. “Give her my love.”

Jacob moved closer to Delia. “I’ll drive you home now if you like.”

“I’d like,” Delia replied, and she sounded absolutely sultry.

“What’s going on there?” Christina asked Andy as Jacob escorted Delia from the room.