The evening was late, and the guests took their leave one by one, each carrying a parting gift from Martin and Elizabeth.
The courtyard was still brightly lit but had quieted down.
Thomas stayed till the end and approached Martin, saying, "Ali's persuasion seems to be effective."
Martin nodded, "Don't relax your efforts with Martha and Rita's PR team. Communicate well with them; I will fully cooperate from my side."
"They'll have a detailed plan and itinerary by next Monday." Thomas glanced at the time, "I'll be leaving now."
Martin said, "Go back and rest early."
After Thomas had walked away, Elizabeth asked in a low voice, "Is there anything I can do?"
"Cheer me on," Martin whispered into her ear, "and every now and then give me a bit of cleansing cream to keep my mind clear."
Elizabeth, who had been the hostess all evening, was in a great mood and said, "I think you are a bit muddled now and need to clear your head."
