Anjelica giggled, her excitement palpable. "Nonsense, darling! He's positively smitten with you. And might I add, he's quite easy on the eyes."
Morgan, the most pragmatic of the group, chimed in with a knowing smirk. "This could be the perfect distraction, Elizabeth. After all, your husband is nowhere in sight."
The mention of Juster Kaine stirred a complex mix of emotions within Elizabeth, resentment, disillusionment, and a lingering sense of betrayal. She had once believed in the sanctity of their union, only to be confronted with the harsh reality of his deceit.
Against her better judgment, Elizabeth allowed herself a moment of curiosity. Who was this charming man who had managed to pierce her carefully constructed facade? What was it about him that had prompted her uncharacteristic smile?
