"When you know, you know," Ethan replied. "Maya is unlike anyone I've ever met. I wasn't about to risk losing her to someone who might appreciate what I saw in her immediately."
The pointed comment wasn't lost on anyone in the room. I saw Daniel's jaw clench.
"Well," I said, ending the call before anyone could ask more probing questions, "Ethan sends his regards. He's looking forward to meeting you all at the wedding."
The mention of our fictional wedding created another moment of awkward silence. Finally, our hostess clapped her hands together with forced brightness.
"Well, this has been fascinating, but I think we need more drinks! Maya, come with me to the kitchen—I want to hear all about your ring."
She linked her arm through mine, effectively removing me from the hostile circle. But as we walked away, I heard Marcus say loudly enough for me to hear: "Something still doesn't add up. If I were a betting man, I'd say there's more to this story."
