““Then he smiled again. In spite of herself, Francesca couldn’t help noticing he looked much more attractive when he smiled like this. “You,” he said, “are quite a woman.” “It’s the Italian side of me,” she replied, as if he had just paid her a great compliment. “Indeed. I have rarely—” He paused with a sharp glance at her. “—never seen such blatantly managing behavior.” Francesca tipped up her chin, smiling warmly at him. She knew the fight was lost but didn’t want to leave with her tail between her legs. “Then shall I see you tomorrow, to begin our search?” “I think not.” Still smiling, he bowed his head. “Good day, Lady Gordon.””
