"My dear," he replied, leaning forward to kiss Nancy's opposite cheek. After all, she was a lovely young lady, and he had no fear of scandal. Not where this was concerned. His own reputation could stand a few tabloids. Not that they could prove anything. If they could? They deserved the story. "How are you?"

He motioned to the table, moving to pull her chair out slightly.

If she chose to open the box on her plate, she'd find a necklace inside. But he says nothing about the box or its contents, leaving it to her and whatever she chooses to do.

"I'm sorry I left so suddenly."