The cork released with a soft pop that echoed through the ballroom. Maddie almost laughed — it was the first celebratory sound of the evening. Eli poured.

“To what?” she asked, raising her glass.

He considered the question. “To not wasting good champagne.”

“That will do.” She took a long drink. “What’s your last name, Eli?”

“Bennett.”

“How long have you worked here, Eli Bennett?”