Blaire looked at her in astonishment. “Her mother was just murdered. I don’t think most people could ‘pull it together’ after something like that.” This chick had some nerve.

Sabrina shrugged. “Well, it’s a charity event, and people bought tickets expecting to hear from her.”

“I’m actually filling in for her tonight.”

The woman regarded her carefully. “And who are you again?”

Blaire wanted to slap her. “I’m one of Kate’s oldest friends.”

“Really? I’ve never seen you at any of their parties.”

“I live in New York. I’m an author.”

Sabrina gave her a bored look. “Anything I would have heard of?”

“The Megan Mahooney series. It’s on TV too.”

Sabrina stared at her a long moment. “Oh yes, I have heard of that.” She shrugged. “I don’t really watch television. I find it a waste of time. And I read mostly literary fiction.”

She was some piece of work. Blaire arched an eyebrow. “I love literary fiction too. Who are some of your favorite authors?”

“Oh, you know, so many.”

Blaire wasn’t budging. “Like who?”

“Um, Virginia Woolf for one.”

“Really? What’s your favorite book by her? I personally love Mrs. Calloway,” Blaire said.

Sabrina nodded. “Yes, so do I. Well, if you’ll excuse me.” She walked away before Blaire could burst out laughing. What a little fraud. Mrs. “Calloway” indeed. Blaire would have to keep an eye on her.

She decided to find her table and go over her notes for her speech, but before she could move, Carter cornered her. Blaire took in the faded blue eyes, the puffy face, and the buttons straining at his middle. It was hard to believe she’d once wanted to marry him. Harder still to believe he’d been able to make her feel like she was somehow less than he was when he ended it.

“I was hoping we’d find a minute to catch up,” he said. “It’s been so long, but you look exactly the same.”

You sure don’t, she felt like replying. When he smiled, his eyes practically disappeared into his pudgy face. “How sweet of you to say. You and Selby have turned this house into quite a showcase.”

He smiled. “Thank you. It’s home.” He put a hand on her arm and continued, “I have to admit, I’m a bit awed. I loved your interview on Ellen. Who’d have thought one day you’d be in People magazine and doing interviews on television?”

I’d have thought, she wanted to say. Instead she simply said, “Thank you. It’s a job.”

“I’d say it’s more than a job. You’re like a superstar. My little Blaire, famous.”