Exquisiteness and effervescent beauty have filled my day—and it’s only 2 P.M. Since our return from England three weeks ago I have barely seen Christopher due to obligations surrounding his band, Fragile Cherry, and studio work. For weeks I’ve gone to bed alone, then woken to him being nearly comatose until long after I’ve left for the day. However, this morning he woke me with kisses that flowed like maple syrup and butter down a tall stack of hot pancakes—and he brought me coffee. He then snuggled me in his arms and presented the lovely idea that we rendezvous for a very early, extended lunch.

I should have known it was entrapment. The moment I walked into the house I felt wisps of discomfort swirling in the air. Once Christopher got me in the bedroom and loaded me up on champagne, the moment Grace warned me about finally arrived.