"They avoid each other generally," Mrs. Whitmore continued, clearly enjoying being the source of information I hadn't anticipated. "Fierce competitors, those two. Though I always wondered if there wasn't more to their mutual hostility than just business."
I kept my expression neutral despite my racing thoughts. Victoria had never suggested Pierce might attend tonight. Had never included him in our preparation discussions. An oversight unlike her usual thoroughness.
"If you'll excuse me," I said to Mrs. Whitmore, "I should continue my rounds."
"Of course, dear. Do come find me again later. I have the most interesting gossip about that fashion designer everyone's talking about, Rose something-or-other. Just became engaged her dead sister's husband Stefan the Rodriguez shipping heir."
My
