“Thank you, but I was asking about the dress.”

“I love it. The line and flow is interesting and attractive, while allowing your natural beauty to shine through.”

Susan pursed her lips and tilted her head to the side and sighed. “Where do you come up with this stuff?”

Charlie laughed. “In one of your design magazines. It was the commentary that accompanied the video. But I really do like it, and you really do look lovely.”

“Well, thank you. Shall we go?”

They started for the door. “I really need this distraction tonight,” Susan sighed. “Especially after the news we got today.”

Charlie opened the door and allowed Susan to go through ahead of him. “Yeah, I can’t believe the judge set aside the confession. It’s just… wrong. We both heard it the first time, and when he repeated it for Mr. MacElvy and the police, that should have clinched it.”

Susan turned back to Charlie. “Yes, but let’s not talk about it tonight. I don’t want to ruin the mood of the party. It’s supposed to be a happy occasion, and I want to keep it that way.”

“I agree,” Charlie responded, and pulled the door closed.

Chapter 3

“Oh, Susan.” Diane rushed up as Susan and Charlie entered the party room. “I love your dress! Is that another one of your creations?”

Susan smiled. “Thank you. Yes, it is. Although it’s partly from a pattern I found in a magazine, I think I’ve made enough changes to call it my own.”

“Well, I love it!” Diane gushed. “It looks perfect on you.”

“I agree.” Steve came up behind Diane. “You look beautiful.”

Susan nodded her thanks, and then looked around the room. “So where are the guests of honor?”