Levi helped her scoot her chair in.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

The maître d’ handed them both menus before he left them alone.

Cassie glanced at the menu and made her selection, her attention turning once again to her surroundings. Potted palms invited the outdoors inside and added a feeling of privacy from the nearby tables. Though a few other tables were occupied, it appeared most of the customers had opted to enjoy the beautiful weather.

“Do you know what you want?” Levi asked.

“Yes.”

Levi signaled the waiter. After they ordered, Levi said, “I received a request from our hosts this morning.”

“What request is that?” Cassie asked, noting how Levi didn’t mention Garrett and Janessa’s names in public.

“Two requests, actually,” Levi amended. “First, we have been invited to join them for a dinner party on Saturday night.”

“I’m not sure that’s such a good idea.”

“I know. I said you weren’t interested in being in the spotlight at the moment.”

“What was the other request?” Cassie asked.

“They have a painting they asked me to pick up at the gallery while we’re in town,” Levi said. “That is, if you don’t mind.”

“Would we be able to spend some time there?” Cassie asked. “It would be nice to enjoy art for a change without considering what wall it should go on or how much insurance to carry.”

“I’m sure we can do that,” Levi said. “I think you’ll enjoy the current exhibit.”

“What exhibit is that?”

“Shades of the Mediterranean. It features work from all over the region, including a few of Sereno’s local artists.”

“I had no idea.”

“I think you’ll enjoy seeing the beauty of Meridia and Sereno in the same place. It’s quite a sight.”

“I look forward to it.”

The waiter arrived and set a plate of stuffed mushrooms in between them.

Cassie picked up her fork and lifted one onto her plate. She cut it in half and took a bite. “Mmm.” She chewed, savoring. After she swallowed, she speared the other half. “Okay, this is seriously amazing.”

“I know. Patrice has been trying to get this recipe for over a year.”

“I can see why.” Cassie lowered her voice. “Maybe she should get Garrett to issue a royal command.”

“He thought about it, but instead, he lets Patrice hire this restaurant for some of the big events.”

“They cater too?”

“Yes, and very well.”

“Are they helping with the dinner on Saturday night?” Cassie asked.

“As a matter of fact, they are.”

“In that case, maybe we do need to attend.”

Levi took a mushroom for himself. “It’s either that or raid the kitchen.”

“I like the way you think.”

* * *

Levi led Cassie into the main exhibit hall in the museum, where paintings lined the walls and sculptures adorned the open space in the center.

Cassie stopped in front of a slim column of wood that had been fashioned into a mermaid. “This detail is amazing.”

Pierre, the museum director, emerged from an adjoining hallway. “Levi, good to see you.” Pierre shook his hand. “I don’t believe I’ve met your friend.”