CHAPTER SIX
Even with gloved hands, Mary was able to manipulate the tongs to securely hold the escargot. She urged her petite fork into the opening, felt as it dug into the succulent meat, and twisted and dragged the delicacy from its helix to place it upon her tongue. She savored the flesh until it all but dissolved, and gave Monsieur Aldini a knowing smile as he took his first bite. After reaching for a small chunk of torn bread, Mary dipped it into the buttery, garlic concoction and popped it into her mouth.
“You must forgive my manners, monsieur.”
“Oh, no, no, no, madame, it is the only way to enjoy this treat. Every last morsel demands to be devoured with gusto.” Monsieur Aldini nodded and smoothed his moustache with his fingers as Mary selected her last chunk of bread.
“I can onl
