"You seem to be reading too much meaning into what I said, Lady Whitmore." Then he tilted his head slightly. "I am only concerned for your reputation since you have clearly informed me that I have nothing left to protect."
Her smile cracked at first, then it completely faded.
"Keep your concern for yourself." She intended to march past him and descend the stairway, but his hand shot out and gripped her forearm just before she could do so.
"Your scarf is askew." He said by way of explanation.
Without asking her permission, he reached forward and loosened the garment then rearranged it about her neck.
His hands brushed against her neck in the process and she felt a jolt of awareness ripple through her. They were close, not close enough to kiss…
But if she took a step forward, perhaps…
"Do you feel warmer now?" He asked, snapping her out of her reverie.
She touched her neck absently and realized that the cold that had been plaguing her was completely eliminated.
