"As it happens," she announced imperiously, though her eyes were still lit with amusement, "he is."

Another smile turned her mouth, and she added, "Though I suspect I'm just slightly more fortunate. And yes, Adam, it was a most excellent try. I don't fault you for it; in your shoes I'd have done much the same."

She drained the rest of her glass, studied his face a moment, and then leaned in for another kiss, her lips brushing his chastely, lingering for a long moment.

"Thank you for understanding."