“That looks like a very serious break, Monica,” Richard said, his expression turning serious. “Which bone did you say it was?”

“The ulna and the radius,” I said, keeping my tone light.

“That takes some real force,” Richard remarked, taking a sip of his scotch. “You must have taken quite a tumble on those steps.”

Derek’s grip on my hip tightened, his fingers pinching hard enough to leave a bruise.

“The porch was incredibly slick,” Derek said quickly. “I should have salted it earlier in the day.”

I looked directly at Richard, letting my smile slip just a fraction, just enough for him to notice the sudden shadow in my eyes.

“Yes,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper. “The ice can be very deceptive when it’s dark outside.”

Derek’s smile stiffened, his eyes narrowing as he stared at the side of my face.

“Monica, darling, why don’t you go check on the appetizers?” Derek suggested, his voice holding a thin, sharp edge.

“Actually, the servers have everything under control,” I said, turning my gaze back to Richard. “But I was just telling Clara about the stairs.”