"I have an idea," Cynthia said. "Bill and I are giving a party tomorrow night. You're invited."

Marie adjusted to the switch in subjects. She decided it was the way rich minds worked, or didn't need to in the first place. Never having to bother with the boring details of life, or how to correct mistakes, just throw a party and all's fixed. Flickering thoughts of Ellen shaking her head in dismay interrupted her deliberation. Ellen would have been in a panic to help Marie resolve her problem and save her marriage; the thought of a party wouldn't have even entered her mind.

"I am?" Even after the time spent with Cynthia, her friendship was puzzling. The contemplation of another of Cynthia's society gatherings so soon was enticing, no matter what the reason.

Cynthia waved off her astonished response. "I was going to invite you anyway, but as of now, you are officially required to attend."

There was no question in her certainty. Marie reveled in the assured manner that Cynthia wielded like a banner.

"I'll have Bill get in touch with Richard and invite him too. Then you two can work things out, and viola, you'll make up."

Was life really that simple for the dazzling rich? If so, Marie decided she could get used to it with no problem. "Hope so," she said with less enthusiasm than her friend.