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 Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 10:54 pm
Very suddenly, Autry stopped, not merely in the physical sense. Something internal seized up and froze him in place. His arm slipped away from Serafima's. He looked like he had seen a ghost.
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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 10:58 pm
Serafima turned immediately to regard her companion with a raised eyebrow. What on earth was wrong with the man? He had been fishing for certain carnal invitations all night and, while she had yet to decide on that aspect, surely he did not want to find a hotel at this hour? "Is that a no to both?" she asked wryly.
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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 11:17 pm
The pained look on Autry's face seemed to drain the humor of the situation. His eyes were strangely unfocused. Too quickly, he said, "It's not you, it's me. I have to go." For once, the classic excuse seemed genuinely honest. He started to step back, to turn and flee, but he stopped halfway and looked directly at her. "Sorry."
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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 11:22 pm
She was quiet for an instant and then nodded. "I believe I am, too," she replied. Straightening, she offered a small bow and a faint quirk at the corner of her mouth clearly transmitted acceptance and a bit of regret. "Perhaps you will be able to visit again. We just won't go back to that restaurant. Have a safe trip, Edward."
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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 11:24 pm
Without another word, he bolted. His pace was merely a brisk walk but they both knew he was bolting all the same. He very quickly disappeared around a corner and off into the night.
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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 11:41 pm
Once he was out of sight, Serafima frowned to herself. After a long few moments, she finally shrugged and turned to push open the gate and step onto the neat pathway leading to her front door. A mystery for another time, she supposed. She had no doubt that, sooner or later, she would see Edward Autry again.
In fact, she rather looked forward to that day. Humming under her breath, Serafima strode up the long walkway. Her right hand fished the house key from her pocket as she went.
Perhaps next time, she would simply offer the guest bedroom. It was always a possibility, hmm.
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