g of the grandfather clock. I slowly unb

abbing my wrist before I

this?" His voice echoed

ee. "Isn't this what

g Tess a ride was a matter of

," I countered his hollow excuse. "If there had

carsick in the back." He stepped closer. "I wasn't alone with her. My

fense; I simply let his expl

rare sign of vulnerability. "Wh

ifting my eyes to his. "You don't ne

d better return that earring to her tonight. Lest your

e silence was

nd his face was as pale as if he'd j