Stein put down his glass and studied her, “Do you remember our conversation here in this room right after Richie had reluctantly agreed to your proposal of marriage?’
“I’m not sure. We spoke of a lot of things.”
“Yes, and among them was a pledge you made. You promised that after the marriage you would feel obliged to demonstrate your devotion to your husband in public.”
“But on the wedding night there were your friends and just last evening my friends were here and they saw...”
Stein lifted a hand to cut her off, “Yes, Mrs. Sconzo. However, a few friends in my house or yours do not constitute a public.” She felt her heart sink, the old fear returning. “I mean,” Stein continued, “I’ve arranged for you and Richie to spend a night on the town: dining, drinking, dancing, a special romanti
