"Think of Edward," I continue in a soothing tone. "Would he want his future bride to be the subject of foul rumors and gossip?"
She betrays a small smile at the mention of her fiancé, and I breathe a sigh of relief. The storm has passed. For now.
Five minutes later, Holmes slowly emerges from his room. I do not insinuate aloud that he had purposefully sought refuge once he sensed the makings of a monsoon, but I hope the expression I offer him as he takes his seat across from me at the table carries the message with vigor.