One year later

"If I have to listen to one more man explain to me that business and politics are not things to concern myself with," Ella growled over the rim of her teacup.

"It is most frustrating," her friend, Audrey St. Laurent, agreed. "I often say some men need a good whack to the heador between their legs, depending on the man."

Ella snickered but then sighed as her mood deflated again.

"What's truly bothering you?" Audrey inquired.

Ella ...