You are correct: I've been around long enough to k

You are correct: I've been around long enough to know you're not one to spread rumors irresponsibly, and I know that you hoping it was a "celebration" was your interpretation of what was told to you by your friend, and not an actual fact.

But you have to admit, dropping ambiguous comments like the one you just did, most definitely qualifies as spreading rumors. I agree it is out of character for you, which is of course why I said something. I usually don't respond to the rumor-mongers. But when they come from reliable long-timers like you, I naturally want to know what's up.