"Not at all, sir. But he likes his comfort. And since walking bores him, he prefers to pass his days in an armchair. And it's my function to entertain him." An arch, pouting voila closed the explanation.
Next came a little pause. Then the male voice asked:
"And are you never free, Madame?"
"Almost never."
"And may I never again hope for the happiness of meeting you on the beach?"
"But surely you may!"
"Mille remerciments; Madame."
A strangely soft restrained tone echoed in this simple word of thanks.
Secret desires murmured in it and unexpressed confessions.
Mary, although she did not look as though she were experienced in flirtation or advances, made a brief, timid gesture. Then, as though discovered and ashamed, she remained very still.
Those two then…. That's who it was….