“There is no such thing as free shoes!”

That is the advice vivacious and inspiring author Candace Bushnell gave to us, her adoring fans, at the Design Exchange’s Lipstick Jungle Cocktail Luncheon. Hosted by MODWOMEN.com and Entertainment Tonight Canada personality, Cheryl Hickey (perfectly poised in a black and white tea dress), the event gave Miss Candace a chance to discuss relationships, writing, creative pursuits, and – of course – sex.

While I was treated to a Redken hair blow-out and Makeup For Ever touch-up, I caught a glimpse of Fiona Newsome, the first I’d seen of her since news of Mimi M.’s exposé. I froze, not knowing if I should approach her or even what to say.

A moment later, she was gone and I didn’t see her until the end of the luncheon speeches.

During Candace’s Q&A with the audience, I kept trying to ask how she manages to stay so sophisticated when faced with the trials and demands of a hectic schedule, but Fiona got to the mic first. She said she was recently betrayed by a very dear friend, publicly embarrassed at an art opening, and asked for advice on how to deal with me. By name.

Candace will forever equate me with betrayal. How devastating.

The one and only Miss Candace Bushnell grumbled about betrayed friends and mentioned a Sex and the City episode. I backed out of the room slowly, but Fiona pointed at me, screaming, “That’s her! She’s the backstabber!”

I nearly fell down the stairs as I ran out of the event. Now that would have been embarrassing.