Mary and her husband Jake are supposed to go to Erica's for dinner tomorrow night. But then Mary remembers that Jake told her they were going to his boss s house for a party at the same time. Mary apologizes to Erica for backing out of the dinner.

Mary: Erica, I hate to back out at the eleventh hour, but Jake and I aren't going to be able to make it to your dinner party tomorrow night.

Erica: What a shame! Did something come up?

Mary: Yes, we have to go to a party at Jake's boss's house. Jake had told me about it a couple of weeks ago, but it slipped my mind.

Erica: You're going to be missing out on a great meal. I'm making duck with olives and couscous. I already bought the duck.

Mary: You better freeze some of it! I feel awful. You must think I'm the biggest flake!

Erica: Don't sweat it. These things happen.

Mary: Let me make it up to you. I'd like you and Alex to come to dinner at our place next Saturday.

Erica: Okay, that sounds good ... oh, I just remembered. Alex's parents are visiting for the weekend.

Mary: Bring them along too. The more the merrier!

Erica: I'd better check with Alex. I'll call you later today to confirm.