“Just trying to find out more about the new guy,” Joseph replied, tilting his glass back and taking a long gulp of champagne.

“There’s not much to find out,” I said. “I’ve lived a pretty sheltered life.”

Angela burst into laughter, and a few parents turned their heads to look in our direction. “The way you look?” She winked at me. “I don’t believe it.”

I resisted the urge to glance down—was my shirt untucked? Instead, I grinned and winked back.

“It’s wonderful of you to attend and donate to such a great cause, Jason,” Meiwen said. She swept back a silver wave with a gloved hand, her bejeweled finger catching the light.

“I’m here to support Daiyu.” I took a sip from my own glass, wishing I had a cold beer instead.

“The Children’s Foundation does so much for the kids in Taipei,” Daiyu said. “The proceeds raised tonight will all be donated to go toward food, shelter, and medical care for children in need.”

“You do wonderful work,” a petite girl named Helen replied. She seemed to be a couple with Yongming, a muscular guy who looked like he was ready to bust out of his jacket. “And you know I love any chance to see Yong Yong in a tux!” The pet name she used for him confirmed my impression.

“What about you, Jason?” Helen asked. “Have you done any charity work?”

“I did help to rebuild homes in LA before,” I lied. “But nothing like this.”

“A man who goes out and gets his hands dirty,” Angela cooed. “I like it.”

I swallowed my champagne too fast, and coughed into the back of my hand.

Meiwen laughed. “You never quit, Ange.” She stopped a waiter bearing a tray of cream puffs and selected one, nibbling on it delicately.

Angela took one too, but I passed. I could never get used to the idea of eating small bites of finger foods. Only those who had never gone hungry could really enjoy it. But despite the ostentatious lavishness of the gala, I was surprised that these yous cared enough to donate money for a mei cause.

“That sounds . . . charming,” Joseph said, his tone indicating that he thought it was anything but. “Though I do believe it’s better to put money behind something.”

“Money is always nice . . . ,” I said. “For those who have it.”

Meiwen blinked, Yongming’s dark eyebrows drew together, and Angela tilted her head, then took a long drink. The waiter drifted by again, and Angela picked up another cream puff. I almost laughed out loud, but the absurdity of it was quickly replaced by anger.

“What do you mean by that?” Joseph asked.

“I mean that the Children’s Foundation seems like an organization that does a lot to help,” I replied. “But maybe the best way to help is to prevent their parents from dying so young.”