“I know old divorces can leave terrible marks, and I appreciate your composure.”

“Composure is necessary,” I said.

“It gives me peace of mind,” Natalie said.

“Ethan promised me everything between you two was fully settled years ago.”

I looked into her clear eyes and saw only honest goodwill, completely untouched by Ethan’s lies.

“Ethan believes a lot of things are settled,” I said gently.

Natalie gestured toward the archway past the coat check.

“Please, come in out of the cold,” she said.