Syd wondered, briefly, if Miss Carmichael was being discouraging on purpose. He couldn't blame her, not in the slightest. Perhaps he had missed his chance after all and she was just humoring him. Maybe she really would rather be shot of him altogether at this point.  The sudden realization of that possibility struck him much harder than he would have liked.

"Is there no cause to pry, then?" He asked, almost cautiously, his previous confidence slipping a little. He eyed her carefully, one eyebrow raised slightly. Though he would be loathe to admit it, her reply would determine his next step, whether or not he tried to mend things between them or had to leave her alone. Merlin what he wouldn't give for a stiff drink right about now.