Mrs. Totten-Baines was absolutely sure that the party would go perfectly. She watched the maid skimming the pool for leaves and bugs. It was soon crystal-clear.

Ms. Bedelia had been highly recommended by the agency.

“Her parties are unforgettable!” The advert said.

“Ms. Bedelia, this cocktail party must go without a hitch. Please be sure the pool deck is arranged properly. My husband is trying to impress an important client. I expect it to go swimmingly, if you know what I mean!”

“I gotchu,” Amelia said, flashing a smile and a thumbs-up.

Later, after the police had left, Mrs. Totten-Baines threw back her third dry martini.

A pile of soaked towels lay poolside. A few guests were still being attended to by EMTs.

“Well!” Amelia chirped. “I think everything went quite according to plan. Some folks didn’t want to swim when I pushed them in.”

“It was a mess!” Mrs Totten-Baines cried into her glass.

“Guess what, my dear wife!” Mr. Totten-Baines said, a bottle of champagne clutched in a fist. His suit was still soaked.

“The client signed the deal!”

And just like that, Amelia thought, everything went perfectly. As it always did.