I wasn't sure if I should thank Arthur or not. For a few seconds, I couldn't speak. Working hard to compose myself, I flashed him a polite smile, purposely pursing my lips.

"Thanks," I finally whispered. I rather enjoyed how much the slightest compliment from him made me feel like I was floating. It was a wondrous sensation that I wanted to enjoy.

The serene moment was soon shattered by Margaret's grating presence, however. She had a knack for ...