“We might have to make a weekend of it,” Pete said, rubbing Eve’s shoulders.

Audrey left the kitchen, maneuvering around two unknown guests discussing a New Yorker article (resisting the temptation to butt into their engaging conversation). The smell of fresh bread and melted cheese wafted from the kitchen. The dining table was in the center of the room, piled high with food. Spinning tiered trays showed off all the appetizers. Eve’s new business cards figured prominently on the table. Elegant tea lights sparkled on the table and the fireplace mantel. Guests were congregated around the dining table, eating, crunching on the avocado-topped crackers and other appetizers prepared by Eve, talking, having a good time.

Bursts of loud conversations acted like a crescendo periodically over the music in the background. Jake remained in the corner, working the music playlist. He had not only helped in the morning; he’d also arrived early to help set up the food and had brought extra alcohol and friends. Jake had made fun of her party “To Do” list until Eve had produced her catering list and Max had staunchly defended the use of lists. Jake had laughingly conceded then. Overall, he and Max seemed to get on, although they’d briefly tussled over DJ’ing the party.

She delivered the ice to the bar. She was asking the bartender for a white wine when Max slid his arm around her and said, “Hopefully he won’t be too distracted by DJ’ing. I offered to DJ to free him up to hang out.”

“Oh, was that the reason? I wondered why you all of a sudden wanted to DJ. But his playlist was much better.”

“Always looking out for you.”

“You’re so sweet … sometimes,” Audrey said. “Do you think he seems interested?”

Max shrugged.

The front door opened. It was Tim—and Colette. That was not a good sign. Not quite the answer she’d been expecting, but if they were together, that eliminated Tim. She told Max, who had his back to the door.

“I’m finally going to meet Tim?” Max whispered. “After two years of hearing about him?”

“Behave!” Audrey said.

“Is he someone I need to behave with?”

“I mean, don’t tell any embarrassing stories about me.”

“What am I going to talk about, then?”

“Ugh. Thanks.”

“Don’t worry. I shall extol your abilities to hire help, to throw dinner parties …”

Audrey punched him lightly.

Max said, “Ouch! I just want to meet him and see this paragon you’ve had a crush on. Jake is some tough competition, though. I want to see who’s right for you.” Max turned around. “Well, hello, is that Colette?”

“Yes. And what if he isn’t right?”

“Then there’s still time for sabotage,” Max said. “I can see her appeal.”