“Shall I get us drinks?” Preston asked. Effy bit her lip, hesitating. He knew she rarely drank and he didn’t want to force her. After a moment, she said, “All right. But no scotch or whiskey, please. Something . . . something sweet.” “I suppose I could ask the bartender to spike your drink with six sugars, just the way you take your coffee.” “Oh, be quiet.” Preston bit his lip on a smile, then leaned over and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. “I’ll be right back.”

