The still night air surrounded them, from inside Caroline could hear the tinkling of laughter, the notes of a piano. They floated past her as if it were a dream of another life. She clung to each word Mr. Darrow said as if this were the only reality.

The question sent a flutter, no more a leap, of her stomach. He had for a moment convinced her he did not care, but these words... could it mean he felt for her too?

With a tentative smile Caroline looked up at Mr. Darrow, "If it were the right offer, I am sure I could convince him." Caroline took a step closer, closer than propriety would demand. Her next words were soft between them. "If it were the right offer, I would very hopeful." She didn't think she was foolish, reading it wrong, but as she spoke the words she wondered yet again if she had misread Mr. Darrow's intentions again.