The two women were still arguing when a commotion stirred near the entrance of the banquet hall.
Conversation gradually faded as heads turned in the same direction. A group of people had gathered around several distinguished guests, greeting them with smiles and handshakes as they made their way inside.
At the centre of the group was the president of the National Charity Federation, a broad man whose small belly strained slightly against his suit. Walking beside him were two of Westhaven's deputy mayors, one responsible for economic affairs and the other for culture.
But it was the young man walking on the far side of the group who drew most of the attention.
He was tall and solidly built, his dark suit sitting neatly across broad shoulders. He walked without hurry, his posture straight and his expression composed. Surrounded by older businessmen and officials, he stood out without making any effort to do so.
Susan Duffy and Jodie Garber reacted almost at the same time.
