Botheration, I’m babbling. Like an idiot. Which I’m not.
He stared at her as if she were little more interesting than a mouse upon the floor. “It matters not. I only came to make an appearance to appease my mother. Now that I have, I shall take my leave.” Emotions roiled in his eyes, but she couldn’t discern just one.
And it fascinated her. What was this man thinking, and why? “I’m sorry to hear that.”
“Why?” That intense gaze met hers once more, and she drew in a swift breath.
Somethingdanced through her lower belly. “Why?” Jane was the world’s dullest parrot. Deep down in her soul she felt a connection that pulled in his direction, and despite her being tongue-tied now, she wanted—needed—to explore why that was. “I believe my path was supposed to cross with yours.” She held up a hand, palm outward, when his sensual lips parted to protest. “It sounds impossibly insane, quite mad in fact, I know, but I also realize that one should never discount a gut instinct, for that first impression is oftentimes the truest emotion.” She smiled. “If you have the time, I’d like to remain in your company for a little while.”
“What if I don’t wish to converse?”
“Then I’ll sit with you in the silence.”
Emotion flared in his eyes. She caught a quick glimpse of longing before it was hidden beneath boredom once more.
This would either be the greatest folly of her life or the most wonderful decision she’d ever made.