They had moved to the living room; the second bottle was half-empty, and the glasses were empty.

“Your house is really, really beautiful, Andrew.” —She laughed softly, letting a smile play on her lips—. “I mean it.”

“I know you mean it,” he replied, taking the bottle. “One of your many qualities is honesty, Johari, and I like that. More wine?”

“I could never lie to you, Andrew.” —She arched an eyebrow—. “And yes, I would like more wine. Thank you.”

He took his time pouring the glasses, feeling