Nan’s POV I had never been to a cocktail party. It had been a week since my birthday dinner. Things were good, but a certain event had popped up. Lionel was obligated to attend a cocktail party a business associate was hosting. He had pleaded with me. “Come on, Nan, I need a plus one. Don’t leave me to the grasping fingers of every single socialite.” The image those words presented had made my jealousy rear. It was the only reason I had agreed. Plus a curiosity to see how the indecently wealthy networked gave me another incentive to go. Another motivation was the dress he had convinced me to wear. It was gorgeous. Delicate ivy patterns embroidered into a forest green gown, slight beading that sparkled only under direct light. A gown fit for the runway. I had tried to protest. “I