Saturday was a boldly glorious day, weather-wise. The sky was a flawless blue, the temperature started out in the high 60's but by midday it was about 10 degrees higher. There was a gentle breeze and no detectible humidity. I sensed all this as I walked over to Ann's. I figured that of all days, this was not one to spend indoors, and I thought I'd find some outdoor activity for Ann and I to pursue.

Ann greeted me at her door with a light kiss on the cheek. She was wearing khaki shorts and a bright yellow pullover blouse. My first surprise (there were to be several that day) came as I noticed that Ann had place settings for three laid out on her table. Ann noticed my gaze and said absently, "I didn't tell you that she'd be here too?"

"Come on Ann, you know you didn't" I said a little put off by this latest turn.

Just then, as of on cue, Ann's intercom buzzed and Ann, speaking into the handset, said "send her up, please."

"Can I get you something to drink?" she asked me, evidently determined not to fill me in on who "she" was.

"Club soda" I answered deciding to play along for the moment.

Ann was in her kitchen when the doorbell rang. "Bob, would you get that, please" Ann asked.

What the hell I thought and opened the door. "Hi Bob" was Ellen's greeting. She seemed not the least surprised that I was there. Ellen was carrying a small soft case in addition to her handbag. She came in to the apartment and looked around admiring the views and the furnishings. Ann called out a greeting and asked me to give her a hand in the kitchen.

Ann hastily explained. "When I saw what a glorious day it was I knew Ellen would want to come here and use my terrace if she was otherwise free so I called and invited her-we sort of had made up to meet for lunch the other night-and I told her you'd be here too."

"What about Richard?" I asked.