My husband sent another woman a huge bouquet of white roses and pink peonies with a card signed “Love, Daniel,” and by one careless mistake, those flowers arrived at our house instead.

I’m very sorry,” she said. I believed her and didn’t blame her. I asked, “Did Laura complain?”

“She contacted us because she received a delivery notification but didn’t receive the flowers.” So Laura had received a notification, another concealed intimacy. “We refunded the order.” Mara added. “You shouldn’t have.”

“Excuse me?” I answered, “Those were the most useful flowers anyone has ever sent me.” She seemed moved. “I’m still sorry.” I answered, “I know.”

Soon Daniel called. “Can I come home?” Looking at the empty vase, I said, “Yes.” He