“Because——” She stopped and dropped her gaze. “We’ve never been properly introduced, have we?”
“True! Allow me, pray! Miss Devereux, may I present Mr. Parmley? Mr. Parmley, Miss Devereux!” He stepped forward, smiling politely and murmuring his pleasure, and ere she knew what was happening he was shaking hands with her. “Awfully glad to meet you, Miss Devereux!” he assured her cordially.
She backed away, striving to draw her hand from his, and laughing merrily.
“Is that what you call a proper introduction?” she asked.
“Well, it’s the best I could do under the circumstances,” Ethan answered. “Having no mutual acquaintances handy, you see——”
“Don’t you think—you might let go now?” she asked, her laughter dying down to a nervous smile.
“Let go?” he echoed questioningly.
“Please! You have my hand!”