Ray laid down his fork and smiled at her.

It was the smile he gave customers when a roofing estimate came in high.

“That’s what tonight is for.”

Cheryl was with the florist, he said, and Megan was choosing a cake.

He said it like he was reading off a supply list.

Diane raised her tea and didn’t drink.

“I haven’t agreed to any of this.”

“I know.” Ray spread his hands flat on the tablecloth.