Minette wriggled and pointed to a group of children nearby playing marbles. He lifted her down, and she danced over to join them.
The spot where she’d perched was still warm under his resting arms. He dipped his head towards Madeleine. “I regret my conduct when we last met, and I apologize for my rudeness.”
Her eyes widened, plainly startled that he’d addressed the issue so directly. “Oh, no, please. Not necessary. I deserved it.”
He raised his eyebrows in inquiry. “Really? Why?”
“I . . .” She hesitated, scanning the surroundings, looking for an escape. “I didn’t handle your questions well. And it’s quite understandable you were on high alert after the terrible things that happened.”
Funny, I still get the feeling she’s hiding something.
“I was upset,” she said.
He felt the hair on
