#scarsdale

She catches his hand in her own, entangling her fingers. "Their deftness, their strength, their gentleness, their grace and skill... all this, in hands alone!"

He stares at her a bit amazed "you always believe in me." A squeeze of those hands "And lady, oh dear lady. If were in my chambers... " A sigh wistful ,hungry "To hear you praise me so."

"Aye - and Mama and Papa both downstairs. They needn't sluaghish ears, alas."

"Maybe you could tell them you're taking a quick trip to my apartment to check out my etchings?" Innocent attempt

"Ha! Rakish scoundrel!" But she grins.

A smile, "Well, I do show you my art. What do you think? Doyle's gone right now"

A duck of her head and a shifty look. "Aye. Let's."

He loves that look, then takes her hand

She rises. "We'll let them know on the way out.... mayhaps I can spend the night?"

"Doyle's not here tomorrow either, so yes, please." He kisses her hand and leads her out

"Mama, Papa, I'll be home in the morning!" and out they go!

(And end scene- happy troll)