Chapter 18. The Price Of Leaving

“About the family expectations,” Daphne said. “You would hate to be the last person told.”

Diana looked at Gabriel. He was watching Daphne with an expression that made the small hairs on her arms rise.

“There is no arrangement between us,” he said. “There never has been.”

Daphne laughed lightly. “Your mother used to invite me every Sunday.”

“She still invites the electrician who fixed her greenhouse. She likes feeding people.”

Cecil made an unfortunate sound into his napkin. Diana would have laughed if Daphne hadn’t looked so suddenly wounded.

Gabriel noticed too. His next words were quieter.

“I gave you my answer before Diana and I met. She isn’t responsible for it.”

“I asked whether she understood your life.”

“Then ask me,” Diana said.

Daphne turned toward her. “Do you?”

“I’m learning. You could help by being specific.”

Elaine set down her glass. “Daphne, this is dinner.”

“And I’m making conversation.”