New Friend

Aubrey cleared her throat, attempting to regain her composure. "What a surprise to see you here, Ellen," she said, her tone barely masking her irritation.

"Hi, Aubrey," Ellen replied sweetly. "I didn't expect to see you here with my husband," she added, emphasizing the words "expect" and "my husband." Ellen's eyes gleamed with a mix of challenge and triumph. "What are you doing here?"

Aubrey's smile was tight, her eyes cold. "I'm here for a holiday," she replied, trying to act casual.

Ellen raised an eyebrow. "Fascinating that you chose Paris from anywhere else."

Because Mason is in Paris, right?

Aubrey smiled a small, strained smile and asked, "And what about you, Ellen?"