“The florist chose them to go with the dinner menu,” I said.

“The florist doesn’t understand executive presentation.”

She reached out and nudged one of the ninety-dollar silver butter knives, turning the silver blade half an inch to the left.

“Next month Cole is taking on the merger of three regional development firms,” Judith said.

“He needs a wife who strengthens his position, Mara, not one who stirs up friction.”

“I’m not stirring up friction, Judith.”

“You question his decisions,” she said, her voice sinking into a cold, deliberate rhythm.