He was clearly embarrassed and not at all sure how to proceed.
Arden realized at once that Dimitri was attempting to explain and for some reason apologize for the visit of the mysterious Olga.
“Not at all,” Arden replied reassuringly. “We didn’t mind a bit.”
“I did not expect her. I was quite surprised. I do not think she will come again.”
In his embarrassment his accent was becoming more pronounced, and Sim and Terry shot a sly glance of delight at each other.
“Please don’t let that little thing worry you,” Arden hastened to add. “It was nothing at all.”
“You are very kind,” Dimitri smiled. “I would like to ask you all, and your mother,” he nodded to Terry, “to take tea with me on the houseboat. Perhaps it would amuse you to have tea in the Russian manner. Yes?”
“We’d love it,” Terry replied quickly, “and I know Mother would, too.”
“Would I be giving you too short notice to ask you today? I am letting up a bit in my work, and tomorrow I must begin again with new vigor,” the young man stated simply.
“I’m sure it will be all right,” Terry answered. “We don’t have many dates down here, and if Mother can come, we’ll all be over this afternoon.”