Michael saw her across the room.
For the first time that evening, his smile faltered.
He approached her near the silent-auction tables.
“Karen. You look well.”
“Thank you.”
He glanced around.
“I hope you’re not here to make things uncomfortable.”
She looked at him calmly.
“I’m here because Second Chapter donated books to the literacy program.”
Michael blinked.
“You donated books?”
“A collection for the children’s reading rooms. The organizers were kind enough to invite me.”
He looked toward the display near the stage.
A small sign carried the bookstore’s name.
Several guests had already stopped to congratulate Karen on the business.
Michael lowered his voice.
“I’m glad you’re keeping busy, but I hope you understand that we should avoid discussing our divorce publicly.”
“Of course.”
She smiled politely.
“That’s why I’ve left the legal matters to our attorneys.”
He seemed uncertain how to respond.
Then Natalie approached.
“Michael, they’re waiting for you.”
