Silvia looked positively radiant at Mr. Whitmore's approval. "Wonderful! We should seal this new mentorship with a toast!" she declared, her voice bright enough to draw the attention of those standing nearby. She turned her dazzling smile on Audrey. "Be a dear and fetch a glass of the red for Mr. Whitmore? The '82 Bordeaux, I think. It's his favorite."
Refusing would make Audrey look prideful and difficult in front of the influential Whitmore and the watching eyes. Accepting would paint her as Silvia's eager little helper.
Audrey's smile was serene. "Of course."
Silvia linked her arm through Audrey's with a show of sisterly affection, leading her away from the men toward the long, opulent refectory table. It was a sprawling landscape of crystal: rows and columns of empty wine glasses sparkled under the lights, flanked by bottles of various vintages. At the far end, delicate canapés were arranged on silver platters.
