Barret strode over and pulled Queenie into his arms.
"Queenie, are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?"
He turned his head and looked at me with disappointment in his eyes.
"Maggie, apologize to Queenie. Now."
"Unless you want me to have security escort you out. Don't test me."
I raised the champagne in my hand, ready to throw it right back.
A suit jacket settled over my shoulders from behind, carrying the cool scent of cedarwood.
Bernard's tall frame stepped between us, shielding me completely.
He drew a handkerchief from his pocket and, with effortless composure, dabbed the wine that had splattered near my collarbone.
Then he turned around.
"Allow me to introduce Ms. Maggie Sullivan, the newest partner at the Delgados, personally recruited at a premium."
"She's also my date for the evening."
The room erupted.
Barret's face went white. He stood frozen in place.
Bernard was the investor he'd spent an entire month courting.
Barret panicked. He grabbed for my arm.
"Maggie, when did you meet Mr. Delgado? Why didn't you tell me?"
I stepped back, dodging his touch.
I lifted my champagne glass and tipped it toward him in a hollow toast.
"Mr. Henson. If you'll excuse me."