“So here’s how it will play out. There’s a reception after the concert. I have to go, at least for a few minutes. Then we’ll hop over to the gala. We show up together, you smile, you chat to a few people, you let them gush, take a few pictures, you wave, and you leave.”
A few more strokes, the kitten’s eyes now almost entirely shut. “You’ll really come with me?”
“To your gala? I wouldn’t miss it for the world. It’s the main reason I’m going to Miami.”
“That’s the worst joke of all.”
“Not that bad.”
He could feel her tension easing away. “You’ll be there? With me? Really?”
“Kari, I’ve asked them to book me into your hotel. We’ll show up together. Do the gala thing. Then scoot.”
“The gala thing.”
“I’ll be firmly attached to your side throughout, if you like.” He nudged her. “Was that a smile?”
“No. Definitely not.”
“I also think it was.” He pointed toward the people pretending to ignore them. “I also think it’s time we go play like we want to be here. Have some dinner.”
“I left my appetite out on the street.”
“So long as you hold the kitten, nobody is going to notice.”
