She clenched her hands tightly, eyes squeezed shut in embarrassment,

And after a few seconds,

She heard Richard's low, gentle chuckle.

"Why so scared?"

"Afraid I won't be able to hold myself back and do something inappropriate to you?"

Richard carefully fastened Sigourney's seatbelt, then gently patted her head in reassurance.

"Don't worry."

"I won't do anything that makes you uncomfortable. I promise."

"I respect you."

Richard's words made Sigourney suddenly feel even more shy, because she ...