FORTY-TWO

Cate gave Tico a nervous smile.  She could see more than innocent curiosity in those deep brown eyes.  She leaned forward to accept his peck on her cheek.

"Just visiting.  I was in town and saw this evening advertised.  It's for a good cause, so I thought I'd check it out."  Her voice was calm and even, though she knew her answer was flimsy.  Cate tried to keep her expression neutral when Tico's bushy eyebrows bunched with his furrowed brow.

"Johnny didn't come with you?"

"No.  He's shooting the series."

"Oh."  Tico gave Cate a long look before his expression relaxed.  "I'm surprised to see you, as lovely as this little coincidence is.  I figured you'd be scrambling around to finish up the details of your own party."

Cate chuckled, a little guiltily.  "Thankfully Dorothea has everything well in hand.  At this point I think I'm more of a hinderance to her than a help."

Tico's baritone chortle made her relax a bit more.  Though Cate was certain her appearance at the gala still hadn't been explained to his satisfaction, it seemed Tico wasn't going to push the issue.

Ellen watched the exchange with her own quizzical expression.  It was obvious the artist and the patron were well-acquainted.   She smoothly slipped into the conversation.

"It appears you've met before."

Cate turned her smile to the older woman.  "Oh, sorry.  Yes.  We know each other well, actually."

Tico rumbled a laugh.  "Cate is my Boss' wife.  Well, my part-time Boss, anyway."

"Your Boss?"  Ellen tipped her head slightly with her half-perplexed smile. 

"Jon.  Tico is his drummer."  Cate couldn't help but giggle as Ellen nodded slowly, an unspoken "A-Ha!" in her expression.  It wasn't often Cate ran into someone who had little knowledge of her husband's singing career, even though there were probably millions of people on the planet who were completely unaware of Bon Jovi's existence.

"Oh.  OH... Of course."  Ellen smiled apologetically.  "I did know that, actually.  It just slipped my mind, since I have my art-brain on."  She chuckled.  "How interesting, then.  That you would be drawn to the work of an acquaintance."

"A friend," Cate gently corrected the woman.  "And now that I know it's Tico's... I can see why I like it."  She gave Tico another little smile.  "We have several of his works."

“Ah, but I don’t believe you have one of my sculptures,” Tico prodded, giving Ellen a little wink.  “This would be a great addition to your collection.”  He turned slightly to sweep both hands toward the statue, mouthing a silent, exaggerated “Ta-Da!”

Cate giggled softly at Tico’s salesmanship, then arched a playful brow toward the older woman.  “My Goodness.  You definitely have the soft-sell down pat.  You even have the artists in on it.  Makes it nearly impossible to resist making a bid.”

“Well, that’s the goal, getting our patrons to open their wallets.  For a donation to a worthy cause they receive a beautiful memento of their generosity.”  Ellen’s reply was accompanied by a wink and a smile.  “And Mr. and Mrs. Torres have been quite generous with their support of this gala.  Not just by providing wonderful pieces for the auction, but financially as well.”

Cate gave Tico a warm smile.  “They’re very generous people,” she agreed.

“Speaking of Mrs. Torres… where is Alejandra?  I haven’t had the pleasure of saying hello.”  Ellen turned to scan the room.

“Unfortunately, she was unable to come tonight.”  Tico bowed his head in an apologetic nod.  “Hector developed a fever this afternoon.  It’s nothing serious, but you know Mami.  She won’t leave his side when he’s ill.”

Cate replied before Ellen, concern tinging her voice.  “Oh no!  Little T’s sick?”

Tico chuckled quietly at her response.  Cate doted over his son every time she saw him.  Hector adored her as well, nicknaming her “Aunt Kitty.”  Jon had wisecracked that Little Hector was the only male on the planet who could get away with calling his tomboy wife by that girly name.

“Just a little bug, probably from something he ate or from playing too hard outside.  But you know Ale… Her baby sneezes and she’s ready to call the doctor.”

“Well please tell him Auntie Cate sends him a big get-well hug.”

“I will.”  Tico smirked, resisting the urge to add “…Aunt Kitty” to his reply.  “Actually, he’d love to see you.  Why don’t you come by tomorrow and give him your well-wishes in person?”

Cate fought back the urge to cringe at Tico’s suggestion.  Though she would likely still be in Miami tomorrow, she certainly wouldn’t have the opportunity to pay a social call on the Torres family.  

“That would be nice,” she answered, nodding slowly as she tried to formulate an answer that wasn’t a complete lie. “I’d like that very much… if your schedule permits.  I certainly don’t want to intrude on your home while Ale is busy…”

“Not at all.  She’d love to see you.”  Tico brushed aside Cate’s mild protest with a wave of a beefy hand.  “In fact, she’ll probably scold you for not coming over sooner.  How long have you been in town?”

Cate blushed lightly.  Now she had no choice but to fib.  Silvio’s team had taken great pains to make it appear as if she had been in Miami longer than she really had.

“Since Saturday.”

Tico’s brow furrowed, and he frowned slightly.  Cate could see the confusion in his eyes.

“This was kind of a last-minute trip.  I found out one of my girlfriends was in town, visiting from Japan.  I haven’t seen her in years, since we worked together, and…”  Cate paused, forcing herself to stop babbling.  She knew better than to offer more details than necessary, but her encounter with Tico had rattled her a little.  She took a breath, then smiled apologetically.  “Well, you know how it is with us girls… we get together and time stands still.”

Tico chortled as he nodded slowly.  “Yes, that I do know.”

“I’ll give Ale a call tomorrow, see if we can work something out for a quick visit.”  Cate glanced back toward Ellen, unable to look Tico in the eye as she made the vague promise.  She recognized now she would at least have to make that telephonic effort, to maintain her ruse that she was in town on a social trip.  She wasn’t sure how she’d be able to avoid another invitation to the Torres home, but she’d have to come up with something.

Ellen watched the exchange, now a bit uncomfortable that the conversation had veered into slightly more personal matters.  She turned her head to quickly survey the auction, looking for an excuse to make a graceful exit.  She spotted another familiar patron, then turned her smile back to Cate and Tico.

“Hector, I’m very sorry to hear your Little One isn’t feeling well.  My best wishes for his speedy recovery.  And please tell Alejandra her lovely presence was sorely missed this evening.” 

“Thank you.  I will,” Tico promised.  He pressed his palms together and bowed slightly at the waist.  The gracious gesture made Cate smile.

Ellen acknowledged Tico’s gentlemanly action with a nod of her head.  “And now, if you will please excuse me, I see someone who has taken an interest in one of the works.  I should go do my job, and encourage a healthy bid.”  She smiled at Cate, her voice taking a teasing note.  “Mrs. Bongiovi, it was a pleasure to meet you.  And I do hope you will consider placing your own bid on one of these lovely pieces.  I believe Hector can handle the ‘sales pitch’ from here.”

Cate chuckled quietly.  “Yes, I’m sure he can.  Thank you, Ellen.  It was a pleasure to meet you as well.”

“Enjoy your evening.”

“I will.”  Cate watched the silver-haired woman turn and make her way to a middle-aged couple who were admiring a large canvas.  She then half-turned, surreptitiously shooting another glance toward the wide arched door to the adjoining room.  She hoped Cupid was still where she had left him.

“So, Cate…”  Tico’s deep voice made her turn her gaze back to his handsome face.  He was smiling, but unmasked curiosity remained in his expression.  “Can I buy you a drink?”

“Umm… actually, I’m not drinking.”  Cate shrugged apologetically.

“Well, then, how about a Ginger Ale?  With a twist of lime?  You can pretend it’s a Mojito.”  Tico rumbled a deep chuckle.  He knew Cate had curtailed her alcohol consumption months ago, when she and Jon had started trying for a child.

Cate chuckled at his suggestion.  Actually, that didn’t sound half-bad.  But she needed to somehow figure out how to gracefully escape into the next room to check on her Target.  She was on the clock, after all.

“Thank you, Teek, but I’m not really thirsty right now.  Maybe later?”  Cate reached for her beaded bag, which was tucked under her arm.  “Besides, I think I need to make a bid on your sculpture.  How do I…?”

Again Tico’s brushy eyebrows arched slightly.  He could sense Cate’s discomfort, like she was anxious to avoid conversation with him.  She was usually gregarious and easy-going around him, even when Jon wasn’t around.   Tico’s eyes narrowed as he saw Cate turn and shoot another look toward the exit.

“You can bid anytime this evening.  In fact, I’d recommend you wait awhile, until more people have offered their bids.  You’ll get a better deal that way.”

“I’m not concerned about the money, Tico.  It’s for charity.”  Cate gave him a tight-lipped smile that didn’t reach her eyes.

“I know.  But just the same… play the game.  That’s how the evening works.”  Tico tipped his head as he again puzzled over Cate’s demeanor.  “So, Chica… if I can’t buy you a drink, can I at least convince you to honor me with a dance?”  He offered her a hand, then tipped his head toward the parquet floor where a dozen couples were now circling to a slow, sultry number.

“Oh… uh… really?”  Tico’s request caught Cate off-guard. 

“Yes.  Really.  Come on, Cate.”  Tico pushed his hand toward her, renewing his offer. 

“Well… okay.”  Cate relented with a little shrug and a sheepish smile.  “But this is at your own risk, you know.  I have two left feet.”  She placed her hand in Tico’s and let him turn her toward the dance floor. 

“That’s okay, so do I.  So we’ll counterbalance each other.”  Tico chuckled as he led Cate away from the auction table, moving slowly so she could follow on her high heels.  When they reached the floor he turned and slipped an arm around her waist, his big hand resting lightly at the small of her back while his other hand clasped hers.

Cate giggled softly and rested her forearm On Tico’s thick bicep, clutching her little purse in her hand against his shoulder.  She waited for him to take the lead, then began to move with him in a slow revolution.

They danced in silence for a few moments, then Tico gave her a concerned half-smile.  “Cate… is everything okay?”

Cate’s blue eyes widened at his quiet query.  Her heart squeezed a little as she saw the worry in his gaze and the sympathy in his smile. 

“Sure.  I’m fine…. Why?”

“Because you’re not acting like yourself.  You seem… distracted.”

“Distracted?”  Cate gave Tico what she knew wasn’t a convincing smile.  “I don’t know what you mean.”

“Like your mind is somewhere else.”  Tico’s smile faded.  “Cate, is everything okay between you and Johnny?  I know it’s none of my business, but…”

Cate gave a soft, nervous giggle.  “Teek, it’s fine.  I swear.  We’re fine.”  She sighed quietly.  “Are you worried because I’m here by myself?  Is that it?”

“Well, it is a surprise to see you here.  I know you don’t particularly like to get dressed up and go out to these things with Jon.”  Tico’s expression remained serious as he guided Cate in a slow turn to avoid a camera-wielding man taking photographs of the band. “So to see you here alone is a little strange.”

“I was in town and heard about it, and… well, the cause appealed to me.”  Cate smiled.  “I can do stuff for charity too, can’t I?”

“Of course.”  Tico raised an eyebrow.  “So here you are, by yourself.  But you seem… nervous.  Like you don’t really want to be here.”

“Tico, I want to be here.  Why else would I have bought a ticket?”

“Are you here with someone?”  Tico’s question was issued in a half-murmur.  Cate could tell from his tone that it wasn’t a friendly query.

“No.”

“Cate…”  Tico frowned.  “How you live your life is your business. But if you are here with another man…”

Cate’s lips parted in a surprised gasp, her blue eyes widening. 

“Wha… what?”

“You heard me.”  Tico stared at Cate, his expression hardening.  “Does Jon even know you’re here?”

“Tico…”  Cate’s smile faded.  “I’m here by myself.  I assure you.”  She sidestepped his question.

“So you came to Miami to visit a friend, yet you come to a charity gala by yourself?”

“She had to fly out tonight.”

“Cate.”  Tico gave her a long look. 

Cate met his suspicious stare, willing herself not to flinch.  She hated lying to this man she adored.

When Tico spoke again his voice was more controlled.  “Chica.  I’ll ask you again.  Are you here with another man?”

Guilt momentarily squeezed Cate’s heart, the emotion quickly replaced by a stab of anger.  Was she really reading Tico correctly?  Did he honestly think she was cheating on Jon?

“NO.”  Cate’s answer was firm and direct.  “I told you.  I’m here alone.”

“Then why do you keep looking at the doorway?”  Tico’s challenge was a low growl of accusation.  “Like you’re watching for someone?”

“Tico, I’m not…”

He cut her protest off.  “And over there… you were fidgeting.  You didn’t want to stand there and talk to me.”

“It wasn’t you.  I was tired of being pressured to bid on the auction.  By that Ellen woman, by Mrs. Duque…”

“Or you didn’t want somebody to see you with me.  Or for me to see who you’re with.”  Tico stopped moving, his grip on Cate’s hand tightening.  Cate felt his body tense with his confrontation.  He clearly didn’t believe her.

“Tico!  I swear!  That’s not it at all…”  Cate felt panic rising.  She could hardly believe what was happening.  How could Tico doubt her devotion to Jon?  She swallowed hard, willing herself to remain calm.  She had to avoid making a scene at all costs.

“Then what is it, Cate?”  Tico’s tone was even but menacing.  “Tell me.  Because I will tell Johnny about this little… encounter.”

Cate felt her temper flare at Tico’s veiled threat.  She knew he was acting out of loyalty to Jon, but his implied accusation was way out of line.  Her jaw clenched, and her reply came through her gritted teeth.

“Teek, I can’t…”

Her denial was interrupted by a cheery voice.  “Smile, folks!  You’re on Candid Camera!”

Startled, Cate automatically turned her gaze toward the voice.  She found herself staring at a shiny lens, a grinning moustached man looming behind the camera. 

“Oh, no thank…”  Cate’s weak protest evaporated as the flash momentarily blinded her.

“Cate, smile.”  Tico’s prompt was delivered in a warmer tone.  The pressure of his hand at the small of her back further urged her to comply.  She glanced at his face and saw Tico now wore a tight-jawed grin.  Cate’s lips curved upwards in response.

“C’mon, you two.  A big smile!  It’s a beautiful night, for a wonderful cause!”  The photographer further encouraged his reluctant subjects.  “You wanna look good in the funny papers, right?”

That comment pierced the tension.  Cate giggled softly, a more natural smile painting her lips.  She felt Tico relax just a tiny bit as he lowered their clasped hands to pose for the shot.  But Cate’s mind kept spinning as she heard the camera’s shutter click.

“Thanks, folks.  Have a good time tonight!”  The photographer nodded before turning to another dancing couple.

Tico took the lead again, silently guiding Cate into another shuffling turn.  She didn’t look at him, the tension between them simmering.  

As they slowly revolved her eyes automatically went again to the room’s arched entry.  She had been away from her surveillance duties too long already, but she couldn’t just dash away from Tico.  Especially not now.  She had to somehow allay his suspicions and convince him not to create trouble.

After a few long seconds he spoke.

“I don’t know what’s going on, Cate.  But it worries me.  I know things have been hard for you and Johnny lately, with the fertility doctors and everything.”  He paused, then cleared his throat before continuing.  “And I know it’s none of my business.  But it hurts my heart to think that you may be on the way to losing each other.”

His earnest words made a lump rise in Cate’s throat.  She had to swallow it down before she could reply.

“Tico.  I swear to you.”  Cate paused, pulling back a bit to give him an earnest look.  “There is nothing for you to be worried about.”

Tico regarded Cate for a long moment, his brown eyes narrowing as he considered her words.  “Chica, if I have nothing to worry about, then why do you look so afraid?”

His words hit Cate square in the heart.  She felt her eyes moisten with frustration.  That anyone could doubt her fidelity to Jon was insulting, but that these accusations came from Tico made them devastating. 

Her voice came in a broken whisper.  Even as the words passed her lips she knew it was wrong, in violation of every regulation and protocol.  But she had to explain, to convince him of her loyalty.

“I… I’m working.”  Cate heard the little hitch in her breath as she paused before leaning a little closer, to speak into Tico’s ear.  “Tico, I’m here on the job.  Right now.”

“What?”  Tico’s rumble was abrupt, filled with surprise.  He jerked his head back to give Cate a wide-eyed stare.  She nodded slowly, then glanced at the couples nearest them on the dance floor.  They had stopped moving, turning to applaud the band.  Cate and Tico hadn’t even noticed the music had stopped.

Tico ignored the applause, still holding Cate in his formal embrace.  He searched her blue eyes for deception.  She stared back, silently imploring his understanding.

“You mean…?”  Tico’s unfinished question was quietly discrete. 

Cate nodded slightly.  “Yes.”  She didn’t offer more. 

When the music started again, Tico noticed.  Once again he took the lead before leaning closer to murmur in Cate’s ear.  “Does Johnny know?”

“He knows I’m working.  I didn’t tell him where.”  A tiny upward curl appeared at the corner of Cate’s mouth as she recalled her earlier conversation with her husband.  “But he suspects I’m here.”

“At the Gala?”

“In Miami.”

“And are you really here alone?” 

“Yes.  I’m here alone.”  Cate gave Tico a sideways glance, now too close to look him in the eye.  “I wasn’t lying, Teek.”

 A small sigh of relief escaped him.  “So I wasn’t wrong.  You were hiding something.”  He chortled softly.

“Yes.  I’m sorry, but…”  Cate paused.  “Tico, you can’t tell anyone.  I shouldn’t have told you.  I could get into big trouble…”

“My lips are sealed, Chica.”  Cate saw the corner of Tico’s mouth curve upward.  “I’m just relieved it’s not… well.  Something else.”

“Tico… I love Jon.”

“I know, Cate.  I’m sorry.”

“Please don’t ever doubt that again.”

“I won’t.”  Tico turned his head to brush a light kiss against Cate’s cheek.  “My humblest apologies.”  He gave her hand a little squeeze.

Cate didn’t respond.  She was still stung by Tico’s assumption.  She didn’t have it in her heart to accept his apology just yet.  After a moment of awkward silence Tico spoke again.

“Are you safe?”

His question made Cate smile despite herself.  They were all alike, these men in her world.

“Tico, look where we are.”

He chortled quietly.  “Yes, but there is evil everywhere.  And it often comes sharply dressed and bearing gifts.”

“I’m being careful, Tico.  My team is watching.”

“As are you?”

“As am I.”  Cate pulled back enough to give Tico a weary smile.  “And that’s what I need to do now.  I’ve been… distracted… too long already.”

“Where do you need to go?  I’ll walk you.”  Tico released Cate’s hand from his but kept his other chivalrously at her back.

“The reception.”

“Then let’s go."  Tico gave Cate a half-apologetic smile.  “Then how about I buy you that Ginger Ale and leave you to your business?”

Cate nodded, returning his smile.  She raised a finger to her lips in a secretive gesture.  He winked his understanding before guiding her away from the dance floor.

Two and a half very long hours later, Cate stepped out onto the huge balcony.  She glanced sideways for another visual check on Cupid’s location.  He was exactly where she expected, now huddled with a trio of swarthy, half-drunk men.  Little orange circles glowed from the smoldering tips of their expensive Cuban cigars.  Cate smirked at the thought that possession of illegal cigars was probably the most minor of the conspiracies in which Cupid had engaged this evening.

She raised her glass to take another sip of her Ginger Ale, then chuckled softly.  Tico’s earlier suggestion had been a helpful one:  garnished with a twist of lime and a sprig of mint, the soda looked exactly like a mojito.   After she had placed the gala-high winning $54,000 bid for Tico’s sculpture, more than a few people had wanted to buy her a celebratory drink.  So, four discretely-ordered "faux-jitos" later, she was still stone-cold sober.

After her tense encounter with Tico Cate had been cornered once more by her eager hostess, this time to introduce her to another well-heeled gala-goer.  This time Cate had found the conversation more interesting; Dr. Maria Cruz-Parra was one of Miami’s foremost reproductive endocrinologists.  Cate had come across Dr. Cruz-Parra’s name in her research, and knew Dr. Klein held her in high regard. 

Still, Cate had to swallow a lump in her throat before engaging Dr. Cruz-Parra in conversation about her work.  She couldn’t help but wonder if some Karmic force was at work this week, first disrupting her pregnancy-test appointment, then leading her to the baby boutique during her photo-op shopping trip, and now bringing her face-to-face with a woman who wanted to talk about the very condition Cate herself endured.  Yet she had put on a smile, asked interested questions, and even posed with the good doctor for yet another party photo.

Finally Cate had excused herself to the ladies’ room.  She needed the escape to gather herself.  The evening had been far more emotional than she had anticipated.

Once done with her reflective moment, Cate had powdered her nose, freshened her lipstick, and typed a few cryptic notes into her iPhone.  They would come in handy when she had to write her report following the surveillance.  The action helped her refocus her energy, making her realize the evening was actually going quite well.  At least from a professional standpoint.

Despite the personal obstacles she encountered, Cate had prevailed in her mission to observe Cupid’s activities throughout the evening.  She had even managed to eavesdrop on several interesting conversations between the Target and his cohorts while avoiding direct interaction.  Though it would not have been disastrous had she and Cupid come face-to-face, Cate wanted to avoid such a meeting if possible.  Thus far, she had been successful.

Now it was almost time for the exclusive moonlight cruise to depart, but Cupid was making no move toward the designated queuing place.  He appeared to be quite content to remain on dry land.  That was fine with Cate; she had not been able to figure out a way to get onto the boat that would not cause undue attention.

A vibration against her ribcage made Cate start.  She automatically cringed against the mild tickle, then reached to set her glass on a nearby ledge.  The buzz repeated twice before she was able to slip her iPhone out of her bag.  

A quick glance at the screen confirmed the incoming call was from “Romeo.”  She smirked slightly at the knowledge that it was most definitely not her youngest Stepson on the other end of the call.

“Hello?”  Cate’s voice was soft and neutral.  She glanced back toward her Target before moving off the balcony and back into the house.

“How’s the party, mi bella?”  Silvio’s Latin-tinged croon came through the phone.

“It’s lovely,” Cate replied.  She smiled at the coded reply.  She and Silvio’s team had designated the phrase as an indication that she was able to speak without an audience.  But in this case, it was also a factually accurate description of the event.

“Did you meet anyone interesting?”

“Yes, some wonderful people.”  Cate chuckled as Silvio continued the ruse.  “I also spent fifty-four grand of my husband’s money on a statue.”

A low whistle sounded in her ear.  “Holy Shit.  Better hope he likes it.”

“Yeah, well.  The kicker is I probably could have gotten it for free.”  Cate grimaced playfully though Silvio couldn’t see her expression.  She would tell him the story soon enough.

“Well that sucks.  But at least a good charity’s getting the dough.”

“Yeah.  So I don’t really mind so much.”

“So, Mrs. B… is your friend still in the building?”

“Yes.  I don’t think he’s leaving soon.”  Cate glanced back toward the balcony.  She could still see the shadowy forms and glowing embers in the corner of the huge terrace.

“Not going out for a little moonlight cruise?”

“Doesn’t seem so.”

“Hmm.  That’s interesting.  Especially now that we found something else out.”

Cate’s pulse jumped at Silvio’s minor revelation.  He wouldn’t call her while she was on an op unless he had something of importance to pass on.  “What?”

“Our timekeeper called.  Guess who cleared his schedule for the rest of the week?”

Cate’s heart sank.  If Cupid had instructed his staff to clear his schedule of several important events, he must be planning to stay in Miami through the weekend.  That meant the surveillance would have to continue.

“You don’t say?”  Cate tried not to let her dismay creep into her voice even as her brain started to swirl, processing the new knowledge.  She didn’t know how the Hell she was going to pull it off, but she somehow had to get back home for Jon’s birthday.

“Su veridad.”

Cate couldn’t keep a sigh of frustration from escaping her lips.  “No indication of his intentions?”

“Not yet.  But I thought maybe you might be able to find out.  He called the office around five, told ‘em he wouldn’t be in the rest of the week.  So it’s a new development.”

“Okay.”  Cate closed her eyes and rubbed at her temple with her free hand, trying to physically slow her rushing thoughts.  “I’ll see what I can do.”

“I know you will.”  Silvio chuckled.  “Check in when you get home.”

“Yup.”

“And be careful.  Don’t drink and drive.”  Silvio snickered at his faux-concern, knowing full well that Cate rarely drank and Agent Pena would chauffeur her back to her hotel.

“I won’t.”  Cate smiled despite herself.  “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Hasta manana, Cate.”

“Bye.”

Cate closed the connection and slipped her phone back into her purse.  He shoulders slumped defeatedly as she moved back toward the patio and the man who now controlled her calendar.

*****

Cate sighed aloud as the cab pulled to the curb in front of the New Museum Building.  

Finally.

It was the dead of night, and traffic from the airport had still been awful thanks to overnight road work.  Cate had nearly been reduced to frustrated tears by the agonizingly slow trek.  She was cold, lonely, and tired, and she just wanted to get home.

The last three days were a blur, having passed in a whirlwind of activity.  What had started out as a simple and rather enjoyable assignment to shop and attend a charity gala in sunny Miami had quickly mushroomed into a major operation.  Thanks to her Target’s spur-of-the-moment travel plans that took him to Key West and Nassau, Bahamas, additional agents had to be summoned from supporting field offices. 

With such a large contingent of feds following the corrupt Jersey politician, Cate had been obligated to stay in Miami to help coordinate the effort.  Though she hadn’t mentioned her near-panic at the thought of missing Jon’s surprise party, Silvio had sensed something was amiss. 

When he convinced Cate to reluctantly share her preoccupation, the Miami Special-Agent-In-Charge had immediately ordered Yvette to book Cate on the earliest flight home.  Cate protested loudly, indignantly asserting that it was her responsibility to manage the activity on her case.  

No shrinking violet himself, Silvio had stood firm.  The argument that ensued was friendly but fierce.  Finally the two agents reached a mutually-beneficial compromise.  Cate stayed on to manage operational activity through midnight on Thursday, and Silvio took over at 12:01 a.m. Friday.  Minutes later Cate had been on her way to the airport.

That was four hours ago.

Half-numb with exhaustion, Cate pushed a folded trio of bills forward over the seat as she mumbled a "thank you" to the equally-weary driver.  He nodded his reply, then climbed out of the driver's seat.  While Cate exited the taxi curbside he retrieved her bags from the trunk.

"Night, Ma'am."  The cabbie didn't await Cate's reply before turning his back and slamming the trunk closed.

"Oh... good night..." Cate replied feebly.  She watched the man hunch back into his seat and the car pull away from the curb.  She stood staring blearily after the cab for a long moment, before realizing she was now alone on the sidewalk.  With a little shiver she reached for her bags.

The soft glow of the low lights in the lobby warmed her.  Cate slowly towed her suitcase across the tile floor and to the private elevator.  The quiet whoosh of the opening doors were like a whispered welcome.  The corner of Cate's mouth curved faintly upward as she slumped against the paneling while the elevator ascended to the penthouse.

She had to enter the keypad combination three times to gain entry to the apartment, her brain and her fingers refusing to work in tandem.  With another weary sigh she shoved her rolling suitcase through the floor and gave it a rough kick.  It glided across the hardwood floor and bumped into the wall. 

Slinging her carryon bag to the floor and more gently dropping her laptop case beside it, Cate pushed shut the front door and slid the deadbolt into place.  Her heavy coat and scarf joined the pile on the floor, as did her shoes.

She trudged through the foyer and the living room, then rounded the corner to the dusky kitchen.  As usual, a faint light glowed above the stove, illuminating the space just enough to provide a navigation aid for half-asleep wanderers.  Cate hesitated briefly, then realized she was too tired even to stop for a drink of water.  She continued her trek to the bedroom.

The sound of his breathing made her smile.  She paused just inside the doorway, letting her vision adjust to the inky darkness.  A weak glow seeped from the edge of the curtains, the radiance of the city lights not fully extinguished by the heavy drapes.  Cate's gaze settled on the bed, guided by the deep, rhythmic whisper of his sleep.

Jon was curled on his side in the middle of the bed, facing away from her.  Despite the winter chill his torso was bare, a dark mass of bedclothes swaddled around his waist.  Shades of shadow played over his muscular back and tinted his tousled hair.

Cate's heart squeezed.  Even in sleep, he was exquisite.

And he was hers.

She stood watching him sleep for a long moment, until her own weariness overtook her.  Not bothering to traipse to the dressing area on the far side of the long room, Cate slowly peeled off her scarf, sweater, blouse, and jeans.  She unclasped her bra and dropped it onto the pile at her feet before taking two steps to the bench at the bed's foot. 

Cate smiled tiredly as she reached for Jon's rumpled button-down, then gently shook it out.  She pulled the shirt to her face and breathed in his scent before slipping the garment over her nearly-nude form.  The soft cotton caressed her skin, a mimic of his tender touch.  Immediately her tired-tense body relaxed.

She was home.

Cate eased down onto the edge of the mattress, not wanting to wake him with her movement.  She glanced at her digital alarm clock, its announcement of the early hour glowing faintly from her nightstand on the opposite side of the bed.  She dismissed the thought that she should set her alarm; her body would probably wake her up anyway.   And if it didn't... well, she didn't really care.

A quiet groan escaped her lips as Cate reclined on the mattress.  Her weary muscles sighed gratefully.  Cate lay still for a moment, then raised her arms above her head.  She breathed deeply as she elongated her body in a welcome stretch, the ripple of pops along her spine bringing instant relief.  Then she relaxed.

A full minute later Cate turned on her side, toward the center of the bed.  Instinctively her knees bent and her spine curved she moved closer to Jon.  She sighed contentedly as her arm slipped around his waist and she curled her body against his.  She brushed a gentle kiss against his shoulder before settling her cheek against his warm flesh.

"Mmmm.... Baby?"  Jon's mumble was hoarse with sleep.  "You're home."

"Yeah." Cate's reply was a tired whisper.  "Finally made it."

"What... time... is it?"  Jon sighed woozily, not opening his eyes.  His arm drifted downward to rest against Cate's, his hand gliding over hers on his belly.  Automatically his fingers tunneled between hers.

"A little after four." 

"Mmm... Jesus.  Red-eye."

"Yeah."  Cate yawned, then smiled faintly.  "But I made it."  Her eyes drifted half-closed.  "Happy Birthday, Baby."

Jon smiled.  "Thanks."

His raspy chuckle was the last thing she heard.  

FORTY-ONE

Cate stared into mirror, unseeing.

The full-length vision reflected back to her was of an elegantly-coiffed, artfully made-up woman.  Her rose-tinted lips were thoughtfully pursed, her gray-blue eyes tired and vacant.  Her steely but weary gaze revealed the battered condition of her soul. 

In stark contrast to the drab melancholy of her expression, lavish drop diamond earrings sparkled in Cate's delicate lobes.  Thick twists of glorious chestnut and mahogany locks swept gracefully upward, baring her neck and shoulders.  Soft amethyst-hued chiffon swathed her lean body, draping in snug pleats from one bejewelled shoulder across her breasts and gathering at an empire waist before cascading to her ankles.  Her polished toes peeked out from silver high-heeled sandals just below the gown's filmy hem. 

She wasn't aware she looked beautiful.  That certainly wasn't how she felt.

She felt empty.

It had been another hard day.  After keeping tabs on her Target at the nightclub until the early morning hours, Cate had returned to her suite and collapsed immediately into bed.  Despite her exhaustion her sleep was fitful, interrupted by nonsensical, troubling shadow-dreams.

A scant few hours later she was up and dressed, craving a workout in the hotel gym to invigorate her body and her spirits.  Before she left the suite Cate had paused on the balcony to dial Jon's number.  Her heart sank as, even at the early hour, his recorded voice answered her call.

After a hard workout, a shower, and a warm room-service breakfast Cate felt more energized.  In the quiet of her spacious hotel suite she had updated her surveillance log, reviewed the day's agenda, and telephonically informed both Agent Quinn and Silvio what she had observed of Target's activity the previous night. 

Once those tasks were complete Cate sat silent for a long moment, forcing herself to breathe, relax, and clear her mind of all work-related matters.  It was a ritual that enabled her to compartmentalize the competing aspects of her life, a mental segregation of professional from personal. 

Then she picked up her iPad, opened her medical chart, and dialed her phone.   

The conversation with Dr. Klein was brief but thorough.  The physician explained Cate's laboratory test results in detail, noting that her body appeared to be functioning exactly as expected in response to the hormone therapy and insemination procedure.  The only deviation was the absence of a pregnancy. 

Dr. Klein offered no speculation as to why the IUI had failed, saying he wanted to discuss the matter in person when she returned to Manhattan.  Feeling a bit like a scolded child, Cate had mumbled her agreement and promised to call for a priority appointment as soon as she knew her schedule.

At the close of the call Cate allowed herself exactly five minutes to digest what she had heard.  Then she wiped away her tears, turned off her iPad, and stowed it away in her bag.  She again closed her eyes, focused her breathing, her posture, and her mind, and pushed aside her personal life. 

It was time to go to work.

By ten a.m. Cate had arrived at the designated meeting place to rendezvous with her partner.  Her assignment for today wasn't to observe Cupid; that task would be left to a pair of male agents better able to blend in to the local scenery.  Instead Cate had the more pleasant but equally important mission of bolstering her backstory as to why she was in Miami at the same time as the New Jersey politician.  That required public activity. 

As assignments went, she had certainly drawn worse.

As much as Cate had bridled at her supervisor's suggestion that she use Jon's Foundation as her cover, she knew he was at least partially right.  One of the hallmarks of artful investigation was creativity within the limits of the law.  Cate knew that:   Hell, she had taught that to hundreds of young Agent Trainees. 

Special Agent Quinn knew it too, and he had immediately seen the obvious angle to avoid the wrench Cupid's social engagement had thrown into their surveillance plan.  The only way to adapt and overcome the challenge was to make full use of every resource available to Special Agent Sullivan and her team.  Including Cate's own pseudo-celebrity.

So today she had taken one for the Team.

 After meeting up with Mirna Hidalgo, the exotic young Latina agent who had been her nightclubbing partner the prior evening, Cate had assumed her role.  Thanks to Yvette's earlier planted "sightings" on local gossip blogs word had reached celebrity-watchers and tabloid-feeders that Mrs. Jon Bon Jovi was in town.  Now Cate's job was to ensure there was public evidence of her feigned leisure.

Together Cate and Mirna had lunched at a trendy and highly-visible beach restaurant, then shopped their way through Miami's most expensive and glamorous retail district.  By early afternoon they had spotted at least two cameras aimed in their direction.  Despite her automatic sneer of distaste at the appearance of the paparazzi, Cate had dutifully pretended not to notice them while giving her credit card a workout.  She knew an armful of shopping bags would at least provide a byline for the otherwise unremarkable photographs of two women spending their husbands' money on a Miami afternoon.

Only one aspect of the performance had given her pause.  While working their way along the Bal Harbour shops Cate and Mirna had encountered a lavish boutique filled with decadent baby and toddler goods.  The sight of frilly little dresses and elegant nursery decor in the window had made Cate's heart throb miserably, but she had taken a deep breath and led Mirna inside. 

Swallowing the lump in her throat, Cate had browsed through the extravagant baby goods before carrying a few items to the register.  Minutes later, she emerged from the shop carrying a large shopping bag boldly emblazoned with the "Precious" logo.  She had little doubt the provocative shot would soon be featured on a gossip website.

Later, upon their return to the Ritz-Carlton, Cate had sent the layette home with Mirna for the agent's new niece.  The dainty little garments would only serve Cate as a painful reminder of the failing aspect of her private life.  It was a distraction she didn't need.

Throughout the day Cate had repeated her attempts to call Jon, but each time reached his voice mail greeting.  At least she knew he had received her messages; Jon had acknowleged via brief texts during his breaks on the set.  His promise of an evening call hadn't given Cate any comfort.  She would be working well into the night.

A quiet electronic ping pulled Cate from her thoughts.  Her head swiveled toward the sound, her gaze fixing on the iPhone resting on the desk in the suite's sitting room.  After a short hesitation she moved slowly from the bedroom to retrieve the device.

7:12 p.m.    Leaving now.  Will be in hotel limo queue at 1930.   -JPena

Cate nodded absently in response to the message.  Though she would attend tonight's charity dinner alone, she wouldn't exactly be flying solo.  Another of Silvio's agents posing as her driver would be her distant backup.  Agent Pena would keep an eye on guest comings and goings and an ear out for chatter.

She brushed a finger over the screen to close the message, then hesitated.  Cate's lips pursed thoughtfully as she debated whether to try once more to contact Jon. 

A slow shake of her head revealed her answer.  No, it was almost time for her to leave.  She needed to use these last few minutes to mentally prepare herself for the evening's role.  With any luck she would do much more than just watch Cupid from afar.  She needed to get in close to glean the details that would make this surveillance a success.  That meant she needed to be prepared for conversation.

Still... she needed to at least say goodnight, to let her husband know why she wouldn't answer his call.

Her short, polished nails clicked quietly against the little screen as she tapped out a brief text message.

7:14 p.m.  Leaving for work in 15 mins, will be out late. I'll call when I can, may be tmrw.  I Love You. - C

Cate sighed wistfully as she dropped her phone into the open  mouth of her small beaded evening bag.  Then she reached for her iPad, which was charging in its dock.  A few quick manipulations made the tablet's screen glow to life, displaying the fundraiser's event website. 

Though she had already scoured the site and others for any facts that may serve her well in the evening's conversation, Cate's eyes automatically scanned over the text.  She smirked wanly as she recalled the old cop adage:  "You can never have too many bullets or too much information."

A few minutes later, satisfied with her preparation, Cate wandered back into the bedroom.  She gently dropped the tablet onto the bed as she passed its foot on her way to the walk-in closet that housed the suite's ample courtesy safe.   As she leaned down to touch the code on the little vault's keypad she heard another electronic alert.  This one was also familiar, but unexpected.

Her heart jumped as she recognized the chime.  The corners of Cate's mouth curved into a hopeful smile as she moved quickly from the closet, hurried back around the bed, and picked up the iPad.  The glowing alert of an incoming Skype transmission made her pulse kick up even more.  Settling on the thick mattress' edge, Cate quickly tapped the tablet's screen to open the window.

"Hey, Baby.  I was hoping I'd catch you before you ran outta there."

Jon's voice sent a tingle through her.  Cate felt her cheeks warm with her smile.

"I'm glad you did.  I miss you."

Jon's grin on the screen disappeared as his lips curved into a pucker.  He let out a low whistle, then his smile was back.  "Well, well.  You look far too dressed up to be sitting in a dark surveillance van all night."  His tease was gentle, but the inquisitive arch of his brow gave away his curiosity.

Cate chuckled throatily.  "Yeah, well.  I guess I drew the long straw for tonight.  I get to actually go inside. You know, where there's warm food and electricity and bathrooms."

"Must be quite some guy you're tailing.  What's he doing, taking Cinderella to the Ball?"

"Who says it's a guy?"  Cate brushed aside Jon's gentle probe with a little smirk.  "Baby, you know..."

"I know."  Jon interrupted her stock reminder that she couldn't discuss her work.  "But I'm gonna go out on a limb here and guess that you're the prettiest agent on the team, so you get to dress up and go to the big party."

A light blush tinted Cate's cheeks at her husband's sweet compliment.  She giggled softly.  "Not even close.  You should see my partner, Mirna.  She's gorgeous.  Long legs, big brown eyes, perfect figure... next to her I look like a little Irish Pippi Longstocking."

Jon laughed softly at his wife's self-deprecation.  "Ah, one of those Latina bombshells, eh?  Well, for the record, I like my Irish girls.  Especially the redheads."  His smile gentled.  "So is this the part where you tell me not to worry about you, you're going someplace safe tonight?"

Cate nodded, her own smile fading a little.  "Yeah.  Tonight's all about watching and listening.  I'll just be a face in the very well-dressed crowd.  Plenty of security."

"Good."  Jon gave Cate a long look.  She felt his earnestness even through the transmission.  "I need you to stay safe, okay?"

"I know.  I will."

"Listen, I know you have to go in a minute, but..."  Jon hesitated, clearly considering his words.  "Cate, when you come home... we need to... talk."

Cate felt a little stab in her heart at his quiet statement.  Though he hadn't finished the thought, she silently completed Jon's sentence.  "About the baby."

"Yeah.  I know."  She sighed softly.  "Dr. Klein wants to see us next week."

"Good.  I don't have a call until Thursday, unless something changes."  Jon again arched a sandy brow.  "Does that mean you'll be gone the rest of this week?"

"No."  Cate's reply was quick and emphatic, accompanied by a firm shake of her head.  "I'm not sure when, but I'll be home by Friday.  Promise.  I'm not going to miss your birthday."

"Cate... maybe we should just cancel our plans for Friday night.  Just in case.  That way if something comes up..."

"Jon, I said I'll be there.  I mean it.  Even if I have to call somebody in to cover for me while I fly home." 

"Okay, okay.  But Baby...you've gotta be tired. So if you don't feel up to going out..."  Jon's lips pursed as he bit back an exasperated sigh.  "You know, I'd be perfectly fine with just staying home on my birthday.  We could order in, curl up in front of the fire..."

Cate's heart squeezed even as she fought back the wave of panic forming in her gut.  Right now few things sounded as lovely as a quiet night at home with Jon, but it was her duty to deliver him to his surprise party at the appointed hour.  She wasn't about to shirk that responsibility, as she had every other detail of the celebration planning process.

"Jon, we have to go out," Cate countered firmly.  "I... I want to take you somewhere special.  I've had the reservation for months."

"Okay, but why Friday night?  Call up the place, change the reservation.  Maybe to Saturday."

"This place has a wait list a mile long, Jon.  I can't just change the reservation."

"So, grease somebody's palm.  Happens all the time."

"I can't."  Cate again gave her head a brisk shake, stirring loose a long copper tendril from her updo.  Her jaw tightened as her brain scrambled to come up with an excuse that wouldn't give away the ruse.  "There's no way.  The wait for this place..."

"Alright!  We'll go out Friday!"  Jon cut her off, rolling his eyes and giving his own head a little shake.  "For fuck's sake, Cate..."

Cate felt her temper spark at his exasperated mumble. "What, is it such a bad thing that I want to take you someplace nice on your fiftieth birthday?"  She snapped her retort. 

"No!  It's fine!  I'm just saying..."  Jon stopped abruptly, realizing he was about to be drawn into a petty argument.  He sighed again before continuing in a calmer tone.  "Baby, it's fine.  If you want to go Friday, we'll go Friday."

"Well, that is your birthday.  And this dinner date has been on the calendar for weeks."

"I know."  Jon gave Cate a tight-lipped little smile.  "Besides, I guess we can't go Saturday anyway.  Dorothea invited me for a birthday dinner with her and the kids.  Stephie's coming home, wants to make me a cake."

"Oh."  Cate felt another stab in her heart, this time of jealousy. She silently cursed herself for the childish reaction.  "Well, that will be nice, for you to be with all your children at once.  That doesn't happen very often these days."

"For us to be with all our kids," Jon gently corrected her.  "You're invited too, you know."

"I..." Cate hesitated, his reminder momentarily catching her off-guard.  "Well, that's nice but... but we'll see.  I don't want to intrude on a family celebration."

"Cate, you're Family."

"I... okay."  Cate took a breath, pushing the conversation aside.  She couldn't allow herself to get drawn into this discussion, not now.  She glanced at her watch.  "Jon, I need to go.  My car will be here in a few minutes."

Jon sighed, then gave her another sad smile.  "Okay.  But first will you do me a favor?"

"What?"

"Stand up and twirl around?  I wanna see how beautiful you  look.  I love that dress on you."

His gentle request made Cate smile.  Even though she would probably be late to the hotel lobby, it was the least she could do.

"Okay.  Gimme a second."  Cate rose from the bed and moved over to the dresser, unfolding the tablet's leather cover.  She carefully propped the device up against the lamp, then stepped back.  "How's that?  Can you see me?"

"Yeah.  Now gimme one of those red-carpet twirls..."

"Okay."  Cate's mouth curved wryly as she slowly turned away from the screen.  She felt a little silly doing this, but she couldn't refuse him this one little pleasure.  Cate rotated slowly, allowing Jon a long moment to get a full view of her back before returning to face the webcam.  Her heart squeezed at his smile.

"You look gorgeous, Baby.  Every guy in the place is gonna be staring at you all night.  The women too."

Cate blushed lightly at her husband's gentle praise.  "Jesus, I hope not.  I'm supposed to blend in."

Jon grinned.  "Well, then.  You're fucked." 

Cate's giggle faded into a wistful smile as she glanced toward the clock.  "Jon... thank you.  I'm sorry, but... but I need to go.  My car's on the way."

"Okay."

"I'm glad you called, though."

"Me too.  Just wish we had more time."

Cate nodded, her heart squeezing.  "I miss you."

"Miss you."

"I'll be out late, so..."  Cate sighed.

"Yeah, I've got another seven a.m. set call.  Probably gonna watch a little T.V., hit the hay early."

"Jon..."  His name stuck in her throat.  "I... I'm sorry."

"Shhh.  S'okay.  Just come home soon."

Cate nodded, swallowing the lump as she blinked rapidly, her thick lashes fluttering against the moisture brightening her eyes.  "As soon as I can."

"Good.  Oh, and Cate... Be sure to wear a wrap when you go out tonight.  I don't want you catching a cold before you come home."  Jon winked knowingly.  "The nights are still a little chilly in Miami this time of year."

Cate chuckled softly at her husband's smug grin.  "Who said anything about Miami?"  Her protest was weak, tacitly confirming his speculation.

"Nobody."

"I love you."

"Love you too, Baby.

Cate sighed.  "I gotta go."

He nodded, his smile fading to a look of gentle concern.  "Okay.  Be safe."

"I will."

"Bye."

"Bye."

The window framing Jon's image went dark, his transmission ended.  Cate sighed again and reached for her iPad.  She smiled wistfully as she closed out the Skype window, then powered down the device.  She carried it with her as she retraced her path across the bedroom and into the closet.

When she opened the safe she slid the iPad inside before extracting another item.  Cate closed and secured the little vault, then stepped out of the closet.  She bent slightly at the waist, with one hand gathering the filmy, flowing skirt of her gown into her fist.  She lifted the fabric to reveal a trim, sheer-stockinged leg banded by a thick strip of black neoprene.

Cate deftly slipped the snub-nosed pistol into the thigh holster.  Straightening, she let her skirt slide from her grip and fall to the floor before smoothing both hands over her hips.

Then, without another glance at the mirror as she passed, she gathered her wrap and purse and headed for the door.

*****

"Champagne, Miss?"

Cate turned toward the polite, Latin-tinged male voice.  She gave the handsome young waiter a small smile as she reached for the offered tray and lifted a flute of sparkling bubbly.  "Thank you."

"My pleasure."

The little smile remained on Cate's lips as the waiter moved away.  She didn't bother to take a sip from the sparkling beverage; it was merely a prop.  Cate returned her blue-eyed gaze to the well-dressed crowd, making mental notes as she scanned the room.

Everything had gone according to plan so far.   Cate had arrived at the party just moments after Cupid, her agent-chauffeured town car pulling into the estate's long drive right behind the Target's limousine.  Not wanting to encounter him just yet, Cate had feigned a phone call before exiting the car, delaying her entrance at the gala by a few moments.  Once several more guests had followed Cupid inside the mansion, Agent Sullivan stepped from the car and made her way inside.

After being greeted by the gala's host and hostess Cate had stopped to leave her wrap with the coat check, then had stepped into the powder room.  There she pretended to check her perfect makeup in the vanity mirror while mentally gathering her wits.  Her job tonight was to watch and listen, but she would also have to play the role of interested philanthropist and arts patron.  That meant she would have to mingle and chat her way through the room of Miami's society elite. 

She needed to work her way as close to Cupid as possible, to note who he spoke with, how he reacted, and, if possible, what he talked about.  Cate wouldn't have the luxury of recording or photographing his interactions, so she would have to rely on her powers of observation and her keen memory.  Ideally, she wouldn't come face-to-face with her Target, but if she did she needed to have her cover story down pat.

Before departing the powder room Cate had fully assumed her role, giving her reflection a bright smile.  She hoped no one else would notice it didn't quite reach her eyes.

Cate raised the champagne glass to her lips as her gaze settled on Cupid.  New Jersey Assemblyman Valentin DiCarlo was clearly enjoying the attention of a small circle of well-heeled guests, grinning and gesturing broadly as he engaged in animated conversation.  He looked exactly like a Hollywood caricature of a corrupt middle-aged Italian-American politician:  sleek salt-and-pepper hair combed back in a Frankie Valli pompadour, glittering dark brown eyes bracketed by deep creases, Shore-weathered olive skin, and a hawkish nose perched over gleaming white teeth.  He wore an elegantly-cut designer suit over a white shirt, a wide silver silk tie knotted at his throat.  As he waved his hands with his conversation gold rings on four of his thick fingers flashed in the soft party lighting.

Cate snorted softly to herself as she noticed the new diamond-crusted band circling Cupid's pinky.  The fit to the stereotype was almost laughable. 

After noting that none of Cupid's current conversationalists looked familiar, Cate turned her gaze elsewhere.  Around the room women in beautiful gowns glided about, smiling and chatting, while dark-suited and tuxedoed men stood in loose huddles, laughing heartily.  A few guests stood along the walls, clearly not interested in socializing, their heads bowed as they busily worked their smartphones.  Other gala-goers took brief breaks from their socializing to pose for the event photographer.

She needed to start moving, to work her way closer.  Cate took another tiny sip of her champagne, then strolled slowly toward a small group of people gathered near the hors d'ourves table.  It was always good to start party-chat over food.

Nearly an hour later, Cate had made small-talk with several dozen gala-goers.  She had been careful to introduce herself by her married name, the familiar surname immediately heading the conversation in the desired direction.  As expected, most of the women asked questions about Jon and his various entertainment projects, and the men were curious about his business and philanthropic efforts. 

Cate repeatedly sidestepped discussion of Jon's Foundation, making it clear that she was in attendance of her own accord and not as a representative of her husband's charity.   Cate found it both amusing and mildly insulting that no one thought to ask her about her own career, though she had no intention of answering that question truthfully.

While she socialized her way through the crowd Cate kept a covert eye on Cupid.  He was clearly enjoying himself, holding court before a rotating circle of guests.  A bored-looking, green-eyed brunette bombshell was the only person who stayed near the Assemblyman, occasionally leaning to whisper something in his ear.  Cate hadn't seen the woman arrive with Cupid, but she immediately recognized the cool demeanor of a paid escort.  She chuckled softly, certain her team would see more of the woman after this party was over.

"Ah, Mrs. Bongiovi!  There you are!"

Cate pulled her gaze from Cupid at the enthusiastic greeting.  She automatically smiled, turning to look at the beautiful Latina woman who now approached her.

"And how are you enjoying the party?"  Isabel Duque extended a slender, manicured hand to Cate.

"It's lovely," Cate smiled, accepting the hostess' gentle handshake.  "Your home is beautiful.  And the food is delicious."

"Why, thank you!"  Mrs. Duque cheerily brushed aside the compliment she had already heard a hundred times.  "I'm so glad you're having a good time.  I wanted to find you before dinner, to thank you again for coming.  We were so excited when your assistant called to tell us you wished to attend."

Cate blushed lightly, the flattery making an impact.  If only she knew... 

"Well, I'm honored that you were able to accommodate me on such short notice."  Cate gave Isabel a genuine smile.  "This is a wonderful cause.  Helping families is an issue that is near and dear to our hearts."

"Yes, absolutely.  It's a shame your husband couldn't come with you."  Isabel's lashes fluttered excitedly as she mentioned Jon.  "We would have loved to have him here.  His Foundation does so much good work.  Maybe next time?"

Cate chuckled.  "Perhaps.  I'm sure he would enjoy an evening like this.  But unfortunately he's pretty busy right now."

"Oh?  Is he working on new music?"

"Not right at the moment.  Actually, he's taken a recurring role on a television series."

Isabel's eyes widened with excitement.  "Ooh!  I hadn't heard he had returned to acting.  Which show?"

Cate gave the woman an apologetic smile.  "I'm sorry, but I can't say.  It hasn't been announced yet."

"Oh."  Isabel's smile turned persuasive.  "But you can give me a little hint, can't you?"

Cate arched a coy brow, recognizing Isabel's troll for gossip.  She could easily see that whatever she told the hostess would be known to everyone in this room within the next hour.  

"Well..." Cate paused, pretending to consider her disclosure.  "Okay, just a hint.  I can tell you it's a series on cable, and it's been on for two seasons already."

"A drama?"  Isabel's tone was hushed, joining in the conspiracy.

"Yes.  Jon will play a recurring character beginning in the season premiere."  Cate smirked lightly.  "It's a role unlike anything he's done before.  He's really enjoying the challenge."

"Oh my Goodness!"  Isabel's response was a half-gasp.  "I can't wait to see it!"

"Well, you should hear more about it soon.  I know Jon has to be involved in some press in a few months, so I assume that's when they'll announce the details."

Isabel reached out to squeeze Cate's forearm.  "I can hardly wait."

Cate smiled and raised her still-half-full champagne flute to her lips for a dainty sip.  "Anyway, because he's working I decided to come down to Miami for a little getaway.  Just me and an old friend."

"That's lovely.  You should have brought... her?... along tonight."

"Unfortunately, she had to fly out tonight."  Cate's lie was smooth.  "A shame.  She loves art.  In fact, she asked me to put a few bids in for her, at the auction."

Isabel's face lit up with Cate's comment.  "That's wonderful!  We have a fabulous assortment of works by some local artists, all donated.  Is there any particular medium your friend enjoys?"

"She has eclectic taste.  But lately she's been interested in sculpture."

"Well, we have several great works.  Perhaps one will catch your eye."  Isabel shifted into the role of consummate saleswoman.  "And we also have a number of exclusive 'experiences' and getaway packages up for auction.  Maybe there's something there you would enjoy.  Perhaps a gift for your husband?  And yourself?" 

Cate smiled.  "Perhaps."

Isabel giggled softly.  "Well, then.  Let me take you over to the auction tables.  We're doing both a silent auction and a live auction, so you have several options."  She reached to take Cate's hand, giving it a little tug.  "Come."

Nodding, Cate reached to set her champagne glass on a nearby table.  She glanced again toward Cupid's location. Seeing that he hadn't moved from his spot, she allowed Mrs. Duque to lead her across the room and through a large arched doorway.  

Cate's eyes widened slightly as she stepped inside the adjoining room.  It was the size of a large hotel ballroom, opulently decorated with crystal chandeliers and gold-leaf ornamented pillars.  Lavishly-decorated round tables filled the center of the room, flanked by a small dance floor on one side and a long, fully-stocked bar on the other.  In the corner a sextet of white-coated musicians played soft Latin music.  A few beautiful couples glided and twirled around the dance floor, enjoying the rich melodies.

At the front of the gorgeous room was a long display of colorful artwork, arranged on huge panels behind black-skirted tables.  Massive canvases decorated with oils, pastels, and black-and-white photographs dominated the walls, and sculptures of stone, clay, glass, and mixed media sat on lower pedestals and tables.  Another long table featured colorful displays advertising the non-artwork items up for auction.  Small groups of well-dressed patrons gathered in front of various works, obviously evaluating them as potential purchases.

   

"Many of the artists are local.  As you can imagine, there is a predominant Latino-culture theme."  Isabel continued her pitch as she guided Cate around the edge of the dining area and to the auction floor.  "But we do have several pieces that are more traditional, or more modern."  She smiled as she stopped at the side of the exhibit.  "We even have a painting done by an elephant, from the Miami Zoo."

Cate laughed softly, more at Isabel's enthusiasm than at the thought of an elephant artist.  "That's fantastic.  And there are already a few things that have caught my eye.  What a beautiful collection."

"Thank you.  Our artists are very generous, particularly for this event.  Every year our selection is larger and more impressive."  Isabel patted Cate's arm, then nodded.  "Now, I really must greet a few more guests.  As much as I'd love to stay and chatter to you all night..." She giggled musically.  "I'm sure you will meet some lovely people here."

"I'm sure I will, Isabel. Thank you."  Cate's reply was warm, though she was already mentally mapping her route back to the other room.  She needed to keep a visual on Cupid.

"As a matter of fact..."  Isabel held up a finger, then turned to wave at a cluster of people gathered around a pedestal bearing a large abstract sculpture.  A silver-haired woman responded, raising a hand to gesture back to the Hostess before excusing herself from the conversation.  The woman glided quickly over to Cate and Isabel, smiling cheerfully.

"Mrs. Bongiovi, this is Ellen Stallings-Coate.  She is one of our wonderful volunteers who helps obtain the donated works for this event.  Ellen, please meet Cate Bongiovi."

The older woman extended a hand.  "What a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Bongiovi."

"You as well."  Cate smiled as she exchanged the greeting, fighting the urge to glance back toward the door to the other room.  She didn't want to be rude, but she really didn't need to spend much more time away from Cupid.

"Now, I'm sure you've gotten this question all night, but are you...?"  Ellen left the remainder of her query dangling, giving Cate a knowing smile.

"Yes.  Jon is my husband."

"How wonderful.  He's quite an icon.  A very generous man, as well."

The simple compliment made Cate smile.  After all the questions about Jon's music and acting and hair and family and physique it was nice to hear a simple acknowledgement of his kindness.

"Yes, he is.  Thank you."

Isabel nodded, indicating her agreement.  "Ellen, could you please tell Mrs. Bongiovi a little about the works we have up for auction?  She mentioned an interest in sculpture, for a friend."

"Certainly."  Ellen gestured gracefully to the tables and pedestals behind her.  "We have a number of lovely pieces to choose from."

Cate stifled a sigh, realizing she probably wasn't going to get out of this evening without making a purchase.  Therefore, it probably would be a good idea to at least pick out something she liked.

"I'm not looking for anything in particular," Cate cautioned gently.  "Just whatever catches my eye."

"Excuse me, Cate?  I'm going to leave you in Ellen's competent hands now," Isabel interrupted.  "I see someone I really do need to speak with.  I'll try to catch up with you later.  Have a lovely time!"

"Thank you, Isabel."  Cate's reply was almost lost as the hostess hurried away.  Cate turned to give Ellen a little smile and a shrug. 

Ellen laughed.  "She's always on the go, that one.  A lovely woman."

"She seems like it."  Cate turned her gaze to the art displays.  "So, what's the hot item?"

"Well, we have several.  But we think the top bid will go for that Nunez."  Ellen pointed at a massive abstract oil painting, done in rich shades of blue and green.

"It's beautiful.  And large."  Cate chuckled.  "Not quite what I'm looking for, though."

"Is there anything that catches your fancy, at first glance?"

"Well..."  Cate hesitated while she scanned the artwork on the walls.  Not seeing anything particularly noteworthy, she dropped her gaze to the lower exhibits.  Her eye was immediately drawn to a shiny black sculpture that appeared to be some sort of distorted human figure.  "That is rather striking."

"The sculpture?  Ah, yes.  We've had a good bit of interest in that one.  It's actually one of the first recently done by the artist.  He's experimenting with differing media from his usual preferences."  Ellen turned and gestured for Cate to follow her.  "Come, get a closer look."

Cate obliged, following Ellen over to the black-draped pedestal.  Now that she was closer she wasn't sure exactly what the sculpture was supposed to be.  She stared at the three-foot-tall ebony mass, evaluating the curves and grooves in the glossy material.  "Is it clay?"

"No.  It's soapstone, coated with a resin glaze.  Interesting."

Cate's brow furrowed as she further evaluated the piece.  "Yes.  Interesting." While she couldn't make out a familiar shape or a form, there was something about this sculpture that intrigued her.

"Does it have a title?"

"No."  Ellen gave Cate a little shrug.  "The card identifies it as 'Untitled, Number Fifty'."

"Hmm."  Cate moved around the pedestal, evaluating the sculpture's form.  "It's almost like... kind of like... waves.  Vertical waves.  But... not really."

Ellen chuckled softly, wordlessly acknowledging Cate's musings.  As a gallery owner she knew not to comment on a potential client's interpretation of a work of art.  Art was subjective.  If the buyer saw waves, they were waves.

"I wonder what the artist's inspiration for this was...." Cate murmured as she continued to circle the piece, her eyes sliding over the sleek curves.  The piece was growing on her.  It might be a suitable purchase.  At least Jon wouldn't hate it. 

"Would you like to ask him?  He's right over there."

Cate turned her head to look at Ellen, mildly surprised at the offer.  "He is?  Well... okay.  I guess."  She watched as Ellen waved briefly at someone located behind Cate, then gestured the person to come closer.  Cate turned to greet the artist, a curious smile turning her lips.

Her blue eyes widened when she heard his unmistakable baritone rumble, even before she recognized his handsome, weathered face.  Immediately her stomach clenched.

"Hector, this lovely woman is quite intrigued by your sculpture.  Would you mind speaking with her about it?"

Tico's lips parted with a soft gasp of surprise as he recognized the lovely patron.  Then a slow grin split his face.

"Well Hola, Cate.  What are you doing here?"